Coronation Street star Sally Dynevor has revealed that she would approach her character's breast cancer storyline "very differently" today, having personally experienced the disease. Dynevor, who portrays Sally Metcalfe on the ITV soap, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009 at the age of 46, coinciding with the day she filmed a scene where her on-screen character received the same diagnosis.
A Personal Journey
Speaking to Prima magazine, the actress explained that her own battle with cancer gave her a deeper understanding of the emotional toll the illness takes. She admitted that her initial portrayal did not fully capture the hidden pain and struggles faced by those diagnosed. "I think I would play it very differently now," she said. "You don't realise the hidden pain of it until you go through it yourself."
Gratitude and Longevity
Dynevor expressed immense gratitude for returning to her role after taking six months off for treatment. Reflecting on her nearly four-decade tenure on the soap, she described it as the "perfect job" and confessed that she never anticipated staying for so long. "I just love it," she said. "I never thought I'd be here this long, but I'm so grateful."
Awards and Family
The actress, who was awarded an MBE in 2021 for her services to drama and charity, is married to Emmerdale scriptwriter Tim Dynevor. Despite her long-running role, she affirmed her intention never to retire, citing the joy and inspiration she draws from her work and younger colleagues. "I look at the younger cast and they inspire me," she added. "I don't think I'll ever retire."
