Helen Flanagan has revealed she is still haunted by one Coronation Street storyline she disliked so intensely that she pleaded with producers to alter it. The actress, who portrayed Rosie Webster on the ITV soap for over a decade, admitted that the only plot she truly struggled with was when her glamorous character swapped designer attire for a job as a window cleaner.
Speaking exclusively in collaboration with Paddy Power, Flanagan confessed she immediately challenged the producers because she felt the storyline did not suit Rosie's personality. 'I honestly loved big storylines, the juicier the better,' she explained. 'But I remember not being happy when they made Rosie a window cleaner because it just didn't fit the character.'
Fighting for Rosie's Glamour
Rather than accept the wardrobe she was given, the actress took matters into her own hands and approached the show's producer with a request. 'I went to the producer and said, "If Rosie's going to be a window cleaner, she's going to be a glamorous window cleaner."'
Her determination paid off, as bosses agreed to give Rosie a makeover that stayed true to her high-maintenance image. 'So, they gave me pink overalls with fluff on them,' Helen laughed. 'Everyone thought it was hilarious, but I was absolutely determined. Rosie would never wear normal overalls. I was the most glamorous window cleaner going.'
Dating Woes and Homebody Life
Away from the cobbles, Flanagan also opened up about her love life, admitting dating has become increasingly difficult since finding fame. 'I find dating difficult,' she said. 'I barely leave the house because I'm either working or looking after my children. I've started forcing myself to go out more because I know I should.'
The actress, who is mother to three children, admitted she has become much more of a homebody. 'I'm only 35, but sometimes when you've got children you naturally become more of a homebody. A lot of the time I'd genuinely rather stay at home.'
Getting the 'Ick' Easily
Flanagan also revealed she is incredibly picky when it comes to romance and is quickly put off by anyone who comes on too strong. 'Honestly, I get the ick easily. I feel uncomfortable when people are too persistent. If I liked someone, they'd know about it,' she explained. 'I'm very down to earth and romantic, but I need a real connection with someone. I have to feel understood. I care far more about personality and connection than anything else.'
Despite admitting she wears her heart on her sleeve, Flanagan says one thing will never change – her signature glamorous style. 'I'm also extremely glamorous in a very northern way,' she joked. 'No matter what's happening in my life, I'll always have my French manicure, hair extensions, blow dry and glam done. I genuinely don't think I'd ever go on a night out without eyelashes on.'
Future Plans Beyond Acting
Looking ahead, Flanagan revealed she could even see herself stepping away from acting one day to pursue a completely different path. 'I absolutely love children,' she said. 'When I'm older, I think fostering could be something lovely to do.'
