Coronation Street fans have united in praise for actress Sue Devaney following her latest scenes as Debbie Webster, which aired on Thursday (September 3). Many viewers took to social media to share the same sentiment: that Devaney deserves recognition for her portrayal of the character's dementia storyline.
Debbie's dementia storyline escalates
Debbie, who was diagnosed with early-onset vascular dementia in April last year, has seen her condition worsen recently. In Thursday's episode, Debbie headed to the salon for an appointment and, reverting to her past self, gave Bethany Platt an 80s-style makeover, believing she was back in the decade she qualified in hairdressing. Bethany played along, but Maria Windass intervened when Debbie wanted to start cutting Bethany's hair, leaving an upset Debbie fleeing the salon in embarrassment.
Later, Abi Webster found Debbie in a state and took her home. But Debbie insisted on going to work at the hotel, where she found Ronnie drinking at the bar and gave him the third-degree. She then suffered a meltdown, ordering customers out of the hotel. A choked-up Ryan Connor explained to guests that Debbie was ill and offered free drinks, while Ronnie sat in shocked silence.
Fans call for awards recognition
Following the scenes, fans flocked to social media to praise Devaney's performance, with many suggesting she should win awards. One fan wrote: "Sue Devaney aka Debbie, what a phenomenal actress, absolutely outstanding episode again with her tonight." Another commented: "@suedevaney13 is smashing this storyline she deserves to win best actress at the ntas and deserves more awards."
A third fan echoed: "Such heartbreaking scenes for Debbie. Sue Devaney should win awards for her stunning performance." Others added: "@suedevaney13 Has been phenomenal with this storyline," and "Phenomenal performances from Sue Delaney in tonight's #Corrie. Debbie's dementia storyline has stepped up."
One viewer wrote: "Just give Sue Devaney every award possible. She's phenomenal in every scene. I still wish that the #Corrie writers had never decided that Debbie would suffer from Dementia but if there's anyone who can do this storyline justice, it's Sue. #CoronationStreet."
Devaney is currently nominated for Serial Drama Performance at the National Television Awards, which take place on Tuesday (September 8).
