Claire Sweeney has said an emotional goodbye after her Coronation Street exit scenes were broadcast on Monday, August 3. The actress played Cassandra Plummer on the cobbles for three years.
Mysterious Departure
In Monday's episode, Cassie left Weatherfield under mysterious circumstances. She had landed a job as a cleaner on a cruise ship, but fans suspect a darker exit as she was driven away by Ross Wilkes, Tyrone Dobbs' biological father. During the car journey, Cassie confronted Ross about their past relationship and threatened to report him to the police for predatory behaviour.
Her final scene saw Ross lock the door and speed away. Spoilers reveal that what happened to Cassie will be a major storyline in upcoming episodes, even though she is gone.
Dream Role in Annie
Claire has quit the show to play Miss Hannigan in Annie. The Walton-born star shared an emotional Instagram post, saying: "Three years. What an incredible journey. From my very first scene with Dame Maureen Lipman, to moving into the Dobbs’ house with my gorgeous Tyrone (love you son), Fiz, the lovely Jennie Mcalpine , Hope, Ruby and Henry."
She also mentioned falling in love with Steve McDonald, scrapping with Tracy Barlow, and poisoning Kenny, calling Bill Roache "a true legend". She thanked the cast and crew, saying: "To every single member of the cast and crew, thank you for the laughter, the friendship and the memories. Being part of Coronation Street, such an iconic piece of British television, has been a genuine honour and a privilege. I’ll treasure these three years forever. The tears you see from me in tonight’s episode were very real."
Co-stars and Fans React
Her on-screen son Alan Halsall commented "Love ya mum," while Elle Mulvaney said "Miss you already." Bella Flanagan wrote "Love you Granny Cass." Fans also shared their sadness, with one saying "Will miss seeing you on the Street, Claire. You’ve been amazing as Cassie. Looking forward to seeing you as Miss Hannigan in a few weeks."
Claire previously spoke to the ECHO about her emotional final day on set, saying: "It was very emotional. I didn't expect them to come on set with flowers and make a little presentation to me. I didn't expect that and it was very lovely."
Annie will run at the Liverpool Empire from September 22 to 26. Claire said returning to the theatre where it all started will be emotional, adding: "[Playing Miss Hannigan] has been a box I've wanted to tick for a long time. To get a chance to play her is a dream role, especially coming to the Empire as well."
