PC Jess Haywood (Donnaleigh Bailey) made her return to Coronation Street this week after an extended absence, entering the Rovers Return to arrest Ollie Driscoll (Raphael Akuwudike) in connection with his recent assault on Jake Windass (Bobby Bradshaw).
Character's Return to the Cobbles
Jess first appeared on the ITV soap in 2017 as the officer brought in to mentor fan favourite Craig Tinker (Colson Smith). She quickly established herself as a firm favourite among viewers and has been central to several landmark moments over the years.
In 2025, she was left heartbroken when Craig was killed following an attack by Mick Michaelis (Joe Layton) while on duty. Since that tragic event, the officer has appeared on the soap only occasionally. This week, however, saw her return to screens after months away.
Fan Reactions
Responding to Jess's comeback, one viewer wrote on X: "Glad to see Jess, we haven't seen her in ages! Hopefully she sticks around longer this time." Another added: "Oh there she is! Our Jess is back! Stunning queen."
Sharing the same sentiment, a third wrote: "Welcome back, Pc Jess Haywood; it's been a while." While another chipped in: "Guess who's back, back again? Jess' back, tell a friend."
Actress's Career History
Prior to her Corrie role, Donnaleigh appeared in Casualty, Crossroads and Holby City. However, audiences know her best for her part in BBC's Doctors, where she portrayed Michelle Corrigan from 2006 until 2010. Her portrayal earned her two nominations for the British Soap Award for Best Actress. The medical drama was cancelled in 2023 after more than 20 years on air.
Before landing the part of Jess, Donnaleigh had already appeared on the cobbles as a different character. In 2015, she played an unnamed nurse at the Rosamund Street Medical Centre, caring for Simon Barlow (Alex Bain) following a cut to his arm. Twelve months later, she returned as PC Woodruff from April to December 2016. It was after that appearance that she was invited back as Jess Heywood, a character she has portrayed on and off ever since.
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
