Coronation Street star Alison King has received an overwhelming wave of support from fans after she detailed her recent personal struggles, including the loss of her mother and a series of health issues. The actress, best known for playing Carla Connor-Swain on the ITV soap, shared her experiences in a TikTok video, prompting an outpouring of love and encouragement from viewers.
Alison King's Health Ordeal
In the video, King, 53, explained that the beginning of the year brought a chest infection she contracted from two babies on set. She described persistent coughing during the filming of her character's wedding, which led to pain in her right lung and chest inflammation. The coughing also caused her to choke on a mint she was using to soothe her symptoms, resulting in a torn intercostal muscle.
King revealed that her nervous system was affected, leaving her struggling to take full breaths. She said, "Because of my nervous system and not doing anything, I was really struggling to breathe a full breath; I couldn't swim, which I do all the time because that's my therapy; I couldn't do anything." She acknowledged her body's struggles but stated she is now "good and happy."
Fan Reactions and Support
Fans quickly took to social media to express their admiration and support. One user, @carlasbarlow, wrote: "God she’s been through so much lately and still managed to get through some massive scenes and storylines. Nobody deserves a break more than her i wish her all the health and happiness in the world."
Another fan, @Caitobrien_x, commented: "What a woman. To lose her mum, face her own health challenges and still deliver some of the most powerful performances on screen, I honestly have no words. My admiration for Ali just keeps growing, that’s my soap superstar right there #AliKing #Swarla."
Career Milestones
Alison King made her Coronation Street debut as Carla in 2006, marking her 20th anniversary on the show this December. However, her first acting role dates back to 1988 in an episode of the Liverpool drama Brookside. She later became a series regular as Lynda Block in Sky One's Dream Team before landing the iconic role of Carla.
Interestingly, King had a brief stint on Coronation Street in 2004, playing Mrs Fanshaw, a customer of builders Charlie Stubbs and Jason Grimshaw. A year later, she returned as Carla, and the rest is history.
Impact of Personal Loss
King also opened up about the heartbreaking loss of her mother, which she mentioned during the video where she received reflexology and Reiki treatment. Fans noted a reduced on-screen presence for Carla, which King attributed to her health struggles and personal grief.
@agf1052 expressed: "Thinking of Ali King and her family today. I’m glad to hear she’s taking the time she needs to get back to being 100%." @ediitedbysoph added: "I’m going to watch the wedding again and cry a bit more & just be grateful that Ali King has given us so much! What a woman! What an actress."
@AuntieSessa posted: "... This woman has sacrificed her literal feet to bring us THE Carla Connor now Carla Connor-Swain. Thank you Ali King, the goddess that you are. We don’t deserve you #Swarla."
@charityslimo concluded: "Ali king has acted her arse off in multiple storylines over the last year - becky & carla’s kidnap, corriedale, swarla wedding & reunion and baby connie’s arrival - all while going through her own personal struggles. My absolute QUEEN give her all the awards #corrie."
