Sue Cleaver has announced her return to television, just over a year after leaving Coronation Street. The actress, best known for her 25-year portrayal of Eileen Grimshaw, will appear on the upcoming series of Celebrity MasterChef.
Departure from Weatherfield
Cleaver revealed in January 2025 that she would exit the ITV soap, having made the decision years earlier. Her final scenes aired on June 6, 2025, when her character left Weatherfield for Thailand after being invited to invest in a bar by her son Jason, played by Ryan Thomas.
In the storyline, Eileen initially planned to go with her partner George Shuttleworth, but after realising the relationship was one-sided, she travelled alone. Since then, she has reportedly enjoyed her new life abroad.
Return to screens
On Thursday, July 30, the former soap star took to social media to announce her involvement in Celebrity MasterChef. She posted a photo of herself in a MasterChef apron on Instagram with the caption: “Coming soon to BBC.” The post quickly drew excited reactions from friends and followers.
Emmerdale's Lisa Riley commented: “Yes Sue. This is ace.” BBC Radio 1's Melvin Odoom responded: “Looking good Sue.” Manchester chef and former MasterChef winner Simon Wood wrote: “YEAAASSSS Sue! ! ! ! !” Other fans expressed their anticipation.
MasterChef lineup
Celebrity MasterChef is set to return for its 21st series on BBC One and BBC iPlayer, though a premiere date has yet to be confirmed. Cleaver will compete in week three, facing off against DJ Melvin Odoom, Paralympic athlete Lauren Steadman, YouTuber and comedian Max Fosh, and singer Una Healy.
Other confirmed contestants include Love Island's Shakira Khan, comedian Joe Pasquale, The Wanted's Jay McGuinness, actress and comedian Donna Preston, Gladiator star Emily Steel (aka Dynamite), former EastEnders actor Nitin Ganatra, and content creator Tom Simons.
