Soap legend Dame Maureen Lipman to return in 2025 after performing in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ at Richmond Theatre

Dame Maureen Lipman, beloved for her portrayal of Evelyn Plummer on ITV’s Coronation Street, has announced an extended hiatus from the iconic soap. Lipman will be stepping away from the cobbles until 2025 to take on a role in the classic pantomime “Beauty and the Beast” at Richmond Theatre, captivating audiences this December through January.

A spokesperson for Coronation Street confirmed the news, stating, “Dame Maureen is taking a sabbatical from Coronation Street towards the end of the year. We look forward to seeing her back on the cobbles in 2025.” Known for her quick wit, Lipman humorously remarked on her new venture, “They asked me to do panto and I said ‘Oh no I can’t’… They said ‘OH YES YOU CAN!'”

Lipman’s departure follows her candid remarks about the current direction of Coronation Street. During an appearance on the Beyond the Title podcast, she expressed concerns about the show’s shift towards darker, issue-driven storylines. “We’ve come to a point in Corrie now where people are getting murdered in knicker factories. We’re having domestic abuse. Anything that ticks the box of social problems in the 21st century is going to be in your local soap,” Lipman commented.

Reflecting on the show’s past, she added, “Whereas back then you had the freedom to put Martha [Longhurst], Minnie [Caldwell], and Ena [Sharples] in the snug and have a conversation about Ben-Hur. It’s never been political but I always like it when the women sit down and go, ‘Ooh, Donald Trump, ain’t his hair shocking.'”

Lipman’s observations highlight her nostalgia for the show’s earlier, more conversational style, which she believes resonated more authentically with viewers. “All those wonderful expressions that your parents come out with, like my mother saying, ‘Ooh, doesn’t a black skirt cover a multitude of sins.’ People talk like that, and we recognise it as true,” she said.

While fans will miss Lipman’s presence on the show, her return in 2025 promises to bring back the charm and wit she is known for. In the meantime, Coronation Street viewers are also preparing for another emotional farewell as Peter Ash, who plays Paul Foreman, is set to leave the show. Paul’s character will face a heart-wrenching storyline, losing his battle with motor neurone disease later this summer.

With Lipman’s sabbatical and Ash’s departure, Coronation Street continues to navigate changes and challenges, maintaining its place as a staple of British television.

Analysis:

Political: Maureen Lipman’s temporary departure from Coronation Street coincides with her critique of the show’s shift towards tackling contemporary social issues. This move can be seen as a reflection of broader political trends within the entertainment industry, where there is a growing emphasis on addressing real-world problems through storytelling. Lipman’s comments suggest a tension between traditional escapism and modern, issue-driven narratives, highlighting a debate on how much political and social commentary should permeate entertainment.

Social: Lipman’s observations about the changing nature of Coronation Street’s storytelling underscore a broader societal shift. Modern audiences are increasingly exposed to media that reflects current social issues, from domestic abuse to workplace violence. This shift mirrors societal debates about the role of entertainment in raising awareness versus providing an escape. Lipman’s nostalgia for simpler, character-driven plots resonates with viewers who long for a return to more lighthearted, conversational storylines.

Racial: Although Lipman’s departure and comments do not directly address racial issues, the broader context of entertainment increasingly includes diverse narratives and characters. This trend aims to reflect the multifaceted experiences of contemporary society. Coronation Street, like many long-running shows, faces the challenge of balancing nostalgia with the need to stay relevant and inclusive. The inclusion of diverse storylines and characters can foster a sense of representation and inclusivity among viewers.

Gender: Lipman’s reflections on the show’s past highlight the role of strong, relatable female characters in Coronation Street’s success. Her comments about conversations among women characters and the relatable expressions they use underscore the importance of authentic female representation. As the show navigates more complex and issue-driven plots, maintaining strong, relatable female characters will be crucial in keeping its broad audience engaged.

Economical: From an economic perspective, Lipman’s hiatus and the ongoing evolution of Coronation Street reflect broader trends in the entertainment industry. The show’s ability to adapt to contemporary themes while retaining its core audience is essential for its long-term financial success. Lipman’s participation in pantomime also highlights the economic viability of live theater, which continues to be a significant part of the entertainment landscape. Her return in 2025 will likely be a highly anticipated event, potentially boosting viewership and advertising revenue.