Helen Flanagan has revealed that one particular Coronation Street storyline still bothers her years later. The actress, who played Rosie Webster for over a decade, said she detested the plot where her character became a window cleaner so much that she went directly to producers to demand a change.
Actress Disagreed with Character Direction
Speaking exclusively with Paddy Power, Flanagan explained that she felt the storyline did not fit Rosie's glamorous persona. "I honestly loved big storylines, the juicier the better," she said. "But I remember not being happy when they made Rosie a window cleaner because it just didn't fit the character."
Instead of accepting the wardrobe provided, the actress took control and marched to the show's producer with a proposal. "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,'" she recalled.
Glamorous Makeover Approved
Her persistence paid off, and bosses agreed to give Rosie a transformation that stayed true to her high-maintenance nature. "So, they gave me pink overalls with fluff on them," Flanagan 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."
Flanagan, 35, also discussed her personal life, admitting that dating has become harder since 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."
Motherhood and Romance
The mother of three acknowledged she has become 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."
Flanagan also revealed she is very selective about romance and easily put off by overeager suitors. "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."
Future Plans
Despite her candidness, Flanagan maintains that one aspect of her life will remain constant: her glamorous appearance. "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."
Looking ahead, Flanagan said she could even envision leaving acting to pursue a different path. "I absolutely love children," she said. "When I'm older, I think fostering could be something lovely to do."
Coronation Street is available to watch now on ITVX.
