Coronation Street fans are convinced they have worked out the identity of Bernie Winter's estranged mum, and it is someone who used to live on the cobbles.
Bernie, played by the actress who made her debut in 2019, is the mum of Gemma (Dolly-Rose Campbell), Paul (Peter Ash) and Kit (Jacob Roberts). She has been involved in major storylines, including Paul's death after a battle with MND and her marriage to Dev Alahan (Jimmi Harkishin).
Celeste's bombshell
Recently, Bernie's estranged aunt Celeste Butterfield (Frances Barber) turned up, revealing she had only weeks to live. Because of a family rift, Bernie wanted nothing to do with Celeste, who has since passed away.
Before dying, Celeste revealed she had breast cancer, meaning many family members are at risk of the disease. In Monday's episode (August 31), Bernie went to the local medics centre for a test but was furious to find it shut.
Mum mentioned on screen
Speaking to Dev, Bernie mentioned her estranged mum, who has never appeared on screen. Dev asked: “Have you considered trying to find out about your mum?” Bernie replied: “What, find out if she’s dead or alive? I’d rather not know, thanks. Used to call her The Disappearing Act, so let’s just leave that there.”
Fans suspect Vera Duckworth
Fans now suspect Bernie's mum could be Vera Duckworth (Liz Dawn). On a Coronation Street Facebook fan page, one person asked: “Have we ever seen Bernie’s mum?” Another said: “No but I’d like for it to be someone that used to be on the show.” A third added: “Vera!” Another fan wrote: “That would be epic!” Someone else said: “Good thinking.”
Vera was a soap legend, debuting in 1974. Married to Jack (Bill Tarmey), she was involved in big storylines, including her marriage and running the Rovers Return. In 2008, the character died peacefully in her sleep from heart failure. Liz reprised the role in 2010 when Jack died on screen. Liz died in real life in 2017 aged 77.
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
