Coronation Street fans have expressed their anger over the decision to kill off Debbie Webster, played by Sue Devaney, with many branding the move a 'huge mistake'.
Last year, Debbie was diagnosed with young-onset dementia in a controversial storyline by the ITV soap. When Metro first reported the plans for her exit, fans were immediately upset, and more than a year later, they remain unhappy.
Fans call for Debbie to stay
The news that Devaney would have stayed on the show for the rest of her career has reignited fans' sorrow, with Metro readers sharing their feelings on Facebook.
'I truly cannot believe that they are going forward with killing Debbie off it's really heartbreaking,' wrote Vickey, while Jean said: 'It's a shame, she brings a bit of sunshine to the program.'
Other fans called the decision a 'huge mistake', highlighting Debbie's qualities as a soap character. Elaine said: 'Stupid decision! She's the stand out act on the street! It's a very pertinent storyline, extremely well written and acted by her! But it will be a much duller Corrie without her character!' Lynne added: 'What a shame she should have been kept. Huge mistake from the writers!'
Fans suggest ways to bring her back
'Why say goodbye to a wonderful actress with expert comic timing? The Street won't be the same without her. Bad decision,' Jan agreed, while Danielle penned: 'Massive mistake they've made letting her go. She's one of the best ones in it now.'
Clare wrote: 'Big mistake to let her go. She is brilliant at bringing comedy moments as well as the more serious scenes. What on earth are they thinking?'
Some fans are already thinking of ways to keep Debbie on the cobbles, with some calling for the story to be scrapped and dismissed as a misdiagnosis, while others think Devaney should return as a different character.
Brenda suggested: 'Big mistake axing Sue she is a brilliant actress maybe bring her back as her twin who was adopted as a baby or they could say they thought her twin died at birth but didn't and was sold. Anything is possible in soap land.' Julie echoed: 'Maybe she could come back as an estranged twin sister?'
As it stands, Debbie will remain on the show until at least 2027. In recent scenes, her condition has deteriorated, with Debbie finding herself unable to recognise her neighbours and needing directions to places she visits often.
