Sally Ann Matthews, who played Jenny Bradley on Coronation Street for decades, has spoken candidly about her departure from the ITV soap, admitting she no longer wanted to waste time on something that did not spark joy. The 55-year-old actress left the cobbles in October last year, with her character jetting off to Tenerife.
Reflecting on her decision to leave, Matthews said she reached a point where she was not enjoying the work. 'Every year, when your contract comes round there’s that question: “Am I enjoying it?” If I am, I say “Yes I’d like to stay.” When you come to a point where you’re not enjoying it, you say no,' she explained.
The actress was also critical of the soap's shift towards crime and police-driven storylines, arguing it has strayed from its roots. 'If I wanted to watch a police drama, I’d watch Line of Duty. If I wanted to watch a hospital drama, I’d watch ER! I really think the soap genre should stick to its USP!' she said.
Matthews noted that cast and crew had been hearing from viewers who felt the same way. 'We, as a cast, have been having these conversations for three or four years, and the crew - their family and people in the street, saying they don’t watch it anymore,' she revealed. Despite audience research suggesting viewers want more crime, she added: 'I’m yet to meet a single audience member that feels that way.'
Since leaving the soap, Matthews has found a new project in the Steps musical, describing it as a 'joyful' new venture. She remains grateful for her time on the show, particularly working with legends like Barbara Knox and Thelma Barlow, but is clear that her 50s are her most liberating decade yet.
