Coronation Street's Gail bids farewell after 50 years

Gail Platt, a character who has been a staple of the long-running British soap opera Coronation Street, is set to bid farewell to her fans after an impressive 50 years on the show. Portrayed by the talented actress Helen Worth, Gail has been through a whirlwind of experiences since her debut in 1974. Over the decades, viewers have witnessed her navigate through various domestic dramas, romantic entanglements, and even some harrowing moments that included time spent behind bars. The announcement of her departure was made in June, and it was revealed that her exit would coincide with a significant storyline involving the Platt family. As Christmas Day approaches, fans are preparing to say goodbye to this beloved character, who has become a familiar face in the lives of many. Helen Worth, now 73 years old, has expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to portray Gail for so long, stating that she feels 'truly blessed' to have been part of such an iconic show. As we look back at some of Gail's most memorable moments, we can see why she has captured the hearts of viewers for so many years. One of the standout moments in Gail's life was her marriage to Brian Tilsley, which took place in 1979. This wedding was a significant event, but it was followed by a tumultuous relationship that included a divorce due to Gail's affair with Ian Latimer. The couple eventually remarried in 1988, but their happiness was short-lived when Brian was tragically killed in a violent incident. Another pivotal moment came when Gail had to confront the reality of her daughter Sarah's teenage pregnancy. In 2000, Gail was shocked to learn that Sarah, who was just 13 at the time, was expecting a baby. This revelation was a turning point for both mother and daughter, as they navigated the challenges of young motherhood together. Sarah's journey continued, and now she has a daughter of her own, showcasing the cycle of life and the importance of family support. Gail's third marriage to Richard Hillman brought a dark twist to her story. Initially, it seemed that Gail had found happiness, but it soon became clear that Richard was hiding a sinister secret. He was revealed to be a murderer, and Gail's life was put in danger as he attempted to harm her and her family. This storyline captivated audiences, with over 19 million viewers tuning in to see how it would unfold. Gail's fierce determination to protect her loved ones shone through during this harrowing time. In addition to her dramatic relationships, Gail has also had her fair share of comedic moments. One such instance occurred in 2004 when she found herself in a physical altercation with Eileen Grimshaw over the treatment of her daughter. This fight, which spilled out into the street, showcased Gail's fiery spirit and her willingness to stand up for her family. Despite their on-screen rivalry, the actresses behind the characters have maintained a strong friendship in real life. Gail's life has not been without its challenges, including a wrongful imprisonment for the murder of her husband Joe McIntyre. After Joe faked his own death, Gail was accused of killing him, leading to a dramatic courtroom battle. Fortunately, she was exonerated and returned to her family, proving her resilience in the face of adversity. Throughout her time on the show, Gail has also had touching moments with her son David, especially after the tragic loss of his wife. As a mother, Gail has always tried to provide support and guidance to her children, even during the most difficult times. In one particularly moving scene, she reflected on the importance of being open and honest with loved ones about their struggles. As we prepare to say goodbye to Gail on Christmas Day, it is clear that her character has left an indelible mark on the hearts of viewers. Helen Worth's portrayal of Gail Platt has been nothing short of remarkable, and her departure will undoubtedly leave a void in the show. Fans are eager to see how Gail's story concludes, and we hope that she finds the happiness she deserves in her new chapter.