In a surprising twist for Coronation Street fans, actress Sue Devaney has revealed that she’s not going anywhere anytime soon — despite previously being announced as one of the stars set to be axed from the iconic ITV soap.
Sue, who plays the much-loved character Debbie Webster, was reportedly told last year that her time on the cobbles would be coming to an end. The news sent shockwaves through the fanbase, especially as it was revealed her departure would be part of an emotional long-running storyline about dementia.
At the time, it was believed that Sue’s final scenes would air sometime in early 2026, giving fans a bit more time to say goodbye to Debbie. However, in a recent interview on Lorraine, the star set the record straight — and gave fans reason to breathe a sigh of relief.
“Well, I know this story is going to go on well into 2027,” Sue told host Lorraine Kelly with a smile.
“Debbie is not going anywhere!”
Her comments confirm that she’ll continue appearing on the soap for at least two more years, much longer than initially expected. It’s a rare move, especially after such a high-profile exit announcement, and suggests ITV producers are planning to give Debbie’s dementia journey the time and sensitivity it deserves.
A Tragic Storyline with a Long Road Ahead
Earlier this year, viewers saw Debbie diagnosed with early-onset vascular dementia, a devastating development that only her brother Carl currently knows about. So far, the condition has begun affecting her behaviour, causing noticeable mood swings, confusion, forgetfulness, and clumsiness — a heartbreaking turn for a character known for her fiery wit and sharp business mind.
Producers are expected to explore the progression of Debbie’s illness over the next two years, likely culminating in a deeply emotional farewell sometime in 2027.
The show’s decision to use Debbie’s storyline to bring attention to the realities of dementia has been both praised and criticized — but many fans simply didn’t want to see her go at all. After her axing was first reported, petitions circulated online, urging the show to reverse the decision, with countless viewers arguing that Debbie was one of the strongest and most compelling characters on the soap.
Shocked and Blindsided by the News
Behind the scenes, Sue Devaney reportedly didn’t see the exit coming. A source previously told The Sun that she was “blindsided” when she was called in and told that her character would eventually be written out.
“Sue was very shocked when she discovered she was being killed off,” the insider revealed.
“She was initially very sad, then furious, and then upset again. It’s taken her a long time to come to terms with it. She had no intention of leaving the show and couldn’t believe it when they broke the news.”
Her reaction highlights just how much the character — and the soap itself — means to her. Sue first appeared as Debbie Webster in 1984, before returning decades later to bring new life to the role in 2019. Since then, she’s become a central figure in Weatherfield, running hotels and pubs, clashing with villains, and often stealing scenes with her no-nonsense attitude and fierce loyalty to her family.
Part of a Larger Cast Shake-Up
Sue is far from the only familiar face bidding farewell to the cobbles. 2024 and 2025 have seen a wave of cast changes, with long-time favourites and newer stars alike saying goodbye. Among those confirmed to be leaving or already gone are Colson Smith, Luca Toolan, Shelley King, Charlotte Jordan, Sue Cleaver, Daniel Brocklebank, Helen Worth, Paddy Bever, and Katy Cavanagh.
Some exits have been due to actors choosing to move on, while others — like Sue’s — were decided by the show’s producers as part of a broader refresh during a time of declining ratings and growing criticism.
A Win for the Fans
Still, Sue’s announcement on Lorraine is a big win for those who rallied behind her. The news that Debbie Webster will remain on our screens until 2027 gives both the character and fans a chance to process her journey in a meaningful way.
And as one viewer commented on social media following the interview:
“We don’t want Debbie gone — and thankfully, she’s not leaving us yet. This storyline deserves time, and Sue Devaney deserves all the praise.”
Whether her storyline ends in tragedy or leaves room for hope, one thing’s for sure — Debbie Webster’s legacy on Coronation Street is far from over.