Coronation Street fans have realised that two characters arrived in Weatherfield at the same time 18 years ago, as they were seen making their debuts in classic episodes of the long-running show.
Vintage episodes of the ITV soap continue to air on ITV3 every weekday, alongside new Corrie episodes every weekday evening on ITV and ITVX. This means Corrie fans can bask in the nostalgia of years gone by and be reminded of the arrival of characters who have gone on to have a big impact in Weatherfield.
Gary Windass and Mary Taylor debut in same week in 2008
The two latest additions to the classic episodes are Gary Windass and Mary Taylor, played by Mikey North and Patti Clare, who arrived in the same week back in 2008. Fans have watched the builder turned debt collector, Gary, become a soap villain after causing the death of Rana Habeeb in the Underworld factory sabotage, before killing Rick Neelan. Gary's murderous secret finally came to light after three years of being hidden in 2022, but only Laura Neelan discovered he killed her estranged husband, Rick.
Mary, meanwhile, has delighted Coronation Street fans since her arrival. Her friendship with Norris Cole, flirtations with Dev Alahan, and the dramas surrounding her reunion with her son Jude have sealed the love for Mary among fans.
Fan reactions to classic Corrie debuts
Speaking about their Classic Corrie debuts, @ThomasR14336083 wrote on X: "... Classic Corrie sees the debut of Mary Taylor & Gary Windass. I'd forgotten they arrived onscreen at the same time & who would've thought they would still be on the show 17 years later? #Corrie." @YasminAli__ replied: "Both incredible strong actors, love our gary more. Both simply own the screens now when they are on, so happy they both haven't left us." @warrennie24 commented: "Interesting, could've sworn they were years apart." @mackembernie said: "Mary makes her debut in Classic Corrie. Can't believe it is 18yrs since Mary made her debut."
