Coronation Street star Sydney Martin has been flooded with praise after she took aim at comments about 'working-class' actors in a new Instagram post.
The actress, best known for playing Betsy Swain on the ITV soap since summer 2024, shared a video with her friend and Hollyoaks star Isabelle Smith. The clip featured a quote reading: 'Give me TWO reasons I should take a chance on a working class actor?' before the two actresses sarcastically shrugged and scratched their heads.
Working class representation
Martin captioned the post: 'hehe @is.abellesmith.' The video drew supportive responses, including from Emmerdale actor Shebz Miah, who wrote: 'A bit louder for those in the back.' Other comments praised the duo and called for more representation.
Landing the role of Betsy marked Martin's big acting break, and she has since been involved in some of Corrie's biggest storylines. Her current storyline sees teenage Betsy suffer two strokes after being strangled during consensual sex by her boyfriend Dylan Wilson.
Health storyline
The major health storyline began earlier this month when Betsy collapsed on the kitchen floor of No.6 Coronation Street and was rushed to hospital fighting for her life. Doctors confirmed a blood clot caused by neck artery damage from the strangulation, despite both believing the pressure applied was minimal.
Coronation Street worked closely with the Institute for Addressing Strangulation (IFAS), The Stroke Association and Safeline to ensure the storyline was portrayed responsibly. Martin's performance continues to win praise, and her Instagram video appears to hit back at those who think working-class actors are not worth taking a chance on.
