R2OK!

mark occomore · Joined: 07 Dec 2006 Posts: 9955 Location: UK

Actress Liz Dawn, who plays Vera Duckworth in Coronation Street, is to leave the soap due to ill health.
Ms Dawn, who has played her character for the past 34 years, will leave the ITV show before Christmas.

The 68-year-old actress has the lung disease emphysema and, according to the News of the World, has told Granada she is too sick to continue.

She said she wanted to "thank everyone" for "the best time of my life" during her years in the popular soap.

Producers would not say how Ms Dawn is to be written out of her £200,000 role, but said she would continue to make guest appearances on the show.

Her character's husband Jack, played by Bill Tarmey, will remain in the soap.

She said: "It's been an amazing 34 years. I'd like to thank everyone for what has been the best time of my life."

Coronation Street executive producer Kieran Roberts said: "After 34 years as Vera, Liz has taken a decision to relax and enjoy her retirement.

"We're currently devising storylines for her character's departure for Weatherfield but we would prefer not to reveal details at this moment.

"We're indebted to her for all she has achieved during her years as Vera Duckworth. She is a star and is loved by ITV.

"We will always miss this wonderful lady and first-rate actress and we are delighted that she's agreed to return to the soap in the future."

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Looks like she's not going to be written out, but I wonder how she will leave? I suppose both Bill and Liz both make the odd apperance as he's not a well either.

firewirefred · Guest

Briant · Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2007 5:06 pm Post subject:

A 'well' is not a 'well' until Gene Vincent sings it! 'Weeeeeelll....Be-bop-a-lu-la, she's my baby...' Laughing

SantaFefan · Posted: Mon Jul 23, 2007 5:41 pm Post subject:

I don't know, Lulu might argue with that Briant! Laughing

I agree though, what a great song, and the clip from the movie too; with the Bluecaps ( The Girl Can't Help It? )