Claire Sweeney has opened up about leaving her role as Cassie Plummer on Coronation Street, comparing the departure to ending a relationship. The actress, who joined the ITV soap in 2023, has now officially taken on the part of Miss Hannigan in the touring production of the musical Annie.
From Weatherfield to the Stage
Sweeney made her debut as Cassie Plummer, a drug user who was later revealed to be the long-lost mother of Tyrone Dobbs (played by Alan Halsall) and the estranged daughter of Evelyn Plummer (Maureen Lipman). After getting clean, Cassie settled into Weatherfield and even began a romance with Steve McDonald, much to the chagrin of Tracy Barlow.
Earlier this summer, it was confirmed that Sweeney would be leaving the cobbles, with her exit storyline currently airing. However, she finished filming some time ago and has now transitioned to her new role as Miss Hannigan in the Annie tour, taking over from Strictly Come Dancing star La Voix, who debuted in the role when the tour began in Wimbledon on May 23.
First Night as Miss Hannigan
Last week, Sweeney shared a video on Instagram Story of herself practicing one of her numbers in a hotel room ahead of her first performance. She later posted a picture of herself transformed into the iconic character, captioned: "Miss Hannigan @anniemusicaluk first night."
In a subsequent social media post, the soap star shared an interview about her departure and new role, headlined: "It feels like I've broken up with a boyfriend I'm still in love with!"
Fan Reactions to the Exit
Fans were quick to respond to Sweeney's emotional admission. @instakilminsta commented: "Really hope we’ll get to see Cassie back on Corrie again someday @claire.sweeney." @andrewgtran wrote: "I'll miss your character. I love your rivalry with Tracy." @alfielucy added: "Hopefully the doors been left open for Cassie's to return."
@chrisfossey5546 posted: "You've been terrific in Corrie. Sad to see you leave, but hopefully we will see you return at some point." @elenarichards3499_ echoed: "Cassie has to come back to Corrie…. She’s a great character."
