Claire Sweeney has officially begun her new role as Miss Hannigan in the touring production of the musical Annie, just weeks after leaving the cobbles of Coronation Street. The actress, who played drug user Cassie Plummer on the ITV soap since 2023, made her debut in the stage role on Tuesday, July 3, 2026, in a performance that marks a significant departure from her television character.
Transition from Soap to Stage
Sweeney's exit from Coronation Street was confirmed earlier this year, with her final scenes already filmed. In an interview on Ireland AM, she described Cassie's departure as "explosive," hinting at dramatic twists for the character. While viewers still see Cassie on screen, Sweeney has fully immersed herself in the stage production, taking over the role from Strictly Come Dancing star La Voix, who debuted as Miss Hannigan when the tour began in Wimbledon on May 23.
The actress shared her preparation on Instagram, posting a video of herself rehearsing a musical number in her hotel room before sharing a photo transformed into the iconic character. She captioned the image: "Miss Hannigan @anniemusicaluk first night."
Support from Soap Stars
Sweeney's new role has drawn enthusiastic support from fellow soap actors. Jude Riordan, who plays Sam Blakeman on Coronation Street, commented, "Break a leg Claire." Junade Khan, known for playing Idris Nazir, said, "Your dream role and you look absolutely fantastic! You will be brilliant." Catherine Tyldesley, who portrays Eva Price on Corrie, wrote, "Eeeeeeeek! Baaaaaabe! So giddy!!!! Break a leg gorg." Emmerdale's Vanessa Woodfield actress Michelle Hardwick posted, "Have the BEST night ever." Theatre star Mazz Murray added, "Good luck," while former Hollyoaks star Ross Adam declared, "ICON," and ex-soap star Hayley Tamaddon called her a "Legend!"
Cassie's Explosive Exit
Speaking about her departure from Coronation Street, Sweeney revealed that Cassie's exit storyline will be memorable. "It's explosive," she told Ireland AM. The character, introduced as the long-lost mother of Tyrone Dobbs and estranged daughter of Evelyn, has been a central figure in dramatic plots. Sweeney's final scenes aired as she prepared to leave Weatherfield, but the actress is now focused on her stage career.
