Coronation Street Extra Lifts the Lid on Hidden Filming Secrets
Laura Jackson, who works as an extra on the world's longest-running soap opera Coronation Street, has opened up about the reality of life on set, revealing strict rules and surprising details that viewers never see on screen. With the ITV show entertaining millions for over six decades, her insights offer a rare glimpse into the meticulous efforts to maintain realism.
Strict Rules for Realism on Set
Laura explained that extras must adhere to stringent guidelines to ensure scenes look authentic. "You can’t have any visible, offensive tattoos," she said, noting that rules vary depending on the scene. For example, while portraying a nurse, jewellery was kept to an absolute minimum. "I've got three piercings, so obviously infection control, they wouldn't be allowing that. I was asked to take my earrings out and my necklace off. That's how they make the scene look realistic and make out that Weatherfield General hospital is a real place."
She emphasised that everything revolves around realism: no visible tattoos, false nails, or false eyelashes in certain roles like nursing, and hair must be appropriate. "It's not about being strict, it's about making the scene look real," Laura added, highlighting the attention to detail that goes into every episode.
Inclusive Atmosphere and Canteen Culture
Despite the strict rules, Laura described an "inclusive" atmosphere on set. At ITV Studios Manchester, extras eat alongside the main cast in the canteen during the day, fostering a sense of equality. "Although you’re an extra you're still important as you are there to make the scene look as realistic as possible. Without making it look real, there’s no programme," she noted.
She shared a personal anecdote: "I’ve spoken to Tina O’Brien [who plays Sarah Platt] in the canteen before. She's an absolutely lovely person, really nice. It's just really nice sitting in here though, it makes you feel included. There’s no separation in the canteen, everyone is equal."
A Fan's Dream Come True
As a lifelong Coronation Street fan, Laura's first day on set was a memorable experience. "I was basically brought up watching Coronation Street, so it was already familiar. My initial day on set I was like 'wow, I've made it' and that was as a TV extra," she recalled. "It definitely had that wow factor for me as I was brought up with watching the show. It changed my opinion for the better because you do see the level of detail that goes into making the programme that it is today."
She also mentioned practical aspects, such as the food arrangements: "The most special thing for me is at the ITV Studios Manchester they don’t necessarily have a food truck unless it's the evening, and then the main cafe or canteen area is shut, so they get a food van instead."
Hidden Filming Tricks and Realism
Laura lifted the lid on some of the hidden filming tricks that viewers never spot on screen. From adjusting props to ensuring extras blend seamlessly into scenes, the effort to create a believable world is constant. Her revelations underscore the dedication behind the scenes of this iconic show, which airs weeknights on ITV1 at 8.30pm and is available to stream from 7am on ITVX.
