In a dramatic career shift, former Coronation Street star Katy Cavanagh has decided to step away from the spotlight herself to become the driving force behind her sons' burgeoning film careers. The actress, 52, has left the ITV soap for a second and seemingly final time, trading Weatherfield for Hollywood as a full-time 'momager'.
From Julie Carp to Hollywood Power Player
Katy Cavanagh first joined the cast of the iconic Manchester-based soap in April 2008, playing the role of Julie Carp. After an initial departure in 2015, she returned briefly last year only for her character to be killed off in a heartbreaking cancer storyline. Now, she is channelling her energies into managing her two sons, Noah Jupe, 20, and Jacobi Jupe, 11, who are both earning critical acclaim for their roles in the major new film 'Hamnet'.
The period drama, directed by Chloe Zhao, explores the family life of William Shakespeare. Jacobi plays one of the Bard's children, while Noah takes on the role of the tragic Prince Hamlet within a play featured in the film. Their performances, alongside lead actress Jessie Buckley, have generated significant awards buzz ahead of the UK release.
A Mother's Sacrifice for Stardom
A source close to the family revealed to the Daily Mail the extent of Cavanagh's dedication. "She's put everything into helping the boys have the best start in the industry," the insider said. "She's put her own career on the back burner to help them realise their dreams. Obviously she's not known in Hollywood, so it's not like her name has particularly opened doors for them, but she's got them into the industry and is constantly helping them."
This move mirrors the high-profile 'momager' role famously embodied by Kris Jenner, who masterminded the careers of her Kardashian-Jenner children. Cavanagh is married to film producer Chris Jupe, and together they are parents to three children.
A Fond Farewell to the Cobbles
Reflecting on her final return to Coronation Street last year, Cavanagh said it felt like a "full circle moment", especially working alongside Sue Cleaver (Eileen Grimshaw) again. Producer Stuart Blackburn had previously praised her, stating in 2015: "Julie Carp has become a warm, wonderful and eccentric character able to raise a laugh and a tear in the same scene."
While fans may miss her on screen, Cavanagh's off-screen role is now firmly in the world of film. With 'Hamnet' tipped for Oscar success and her sons' careers on a steep upward trajectory, her new vocation as a behind-the-scenes powerhouse looks set to be her most successful role yet.
