Coronation Street Star Sally Ann Matthews Lands Major New Role After Jenny Bradley Exit
For fans of Coronation Street, the news that Sally Ann Matthews has landed a major new stage role after her departure from the iconic soap is one of the most exciting developments of 2026. After nearly four decades of captivating audiences as Jenny Bradley — a character she first played in 1986 — Sally Ann has stepped into a bold new chapter of her career, proving that her talent extends far beyond the cobbles of Weatherfield.
A New Chapter for a Coronation Street Icon
Sally Ann Matthews, the beloved actress who portrayed Jenny Bradley / Jenny Connor on Coronation Street for decades, officially exited the soap in October 2025 after an incredible 39 years linked to the show. Originally introduced in the late 1980s, Sally Ann reprised her role multiple times, becoming one of Corrie’s most enduring and memorable characters. Her departure marked the end of an era for many fans who grew up watching her story unfold through countless dramatic twists and turns.
But rather than slowing down, the seasoned performer has now boldly pivoted into the world of musical theatre — a realm that showcases her versatility as a performer in an entirely different light.
Joining “Here & Now: The Steps Musical”
Sally Ann has been announced as part of the cast for the UK and Ireland tour of Here & Now: The Steps Musical, a jukebox stage production featuring the music of iconic pop group Steps. In the production, she takes over the role of Patricia — succeeding Finty Williams — and is set to perform in several major UK venues starting from January 23, 2026.
The musical itself revolves around a group of friends navigating the ups and downs of life and love, set against a backdrop of classic Steps hits like “5,6,7,8”, “Deeper Shade of Blue”, and “Tragedy”. Sally Ann will be performing alongside an ensemble including Lara Denning, Jacqui Dubois, and Blake Patrick Anderson, bringing a new energy and seasoned stage presence to the production.
This move marks Sally Ann’s first major acting project since stepping away from the long-running ITV soap. It’s a significant shift that highlights her adaptability as an actor and her continued relevance in the British entertainment scene.
From Weatherfield to the Stage
For many viewers, Jenny Bradley’s journey on Coronation Street was more than just a storyline — it became a staple of their weekly TV routines. Jenny evolved from a troubled young woman into a central figure in Weatherfield’s heart, often at the center of major plots involving family drama, love, and the chaos of running the Rovers Return Inn.
However, after nearly four decades connected to the soap, Sally Ann decided it was time to challenge herself with new creative opportunities. In an Instagram announcement ahead of her departure, she spoke about her desire to explore roles she had always hoped to play “when I’d grown up,” emphasizing her excitement about tackling different forms of storytelling beyond the familiar streets of Coronation Street.
This transition resonates with many in the entertainment industry who admire actors willing to diversify their craft — especially after long tenures in iconic television roles. It’s a bold decision that underscores Sally Ann’s commitment to artistic growth and passion for performance.
What This Means for Fans and Her Career
Fans have responded with a mix of nostalgia and excitement. While many will always remember Jenny Bradley as a cornerstone of the Corrie universe, Sally Ann’s move into musical theatre offers them a chance to see her in a fresh, exhilarating context. It also opens the possibility for even more varied roles in theatre, TV, or film in the years ahead.
Tour dates for Here & Now: The Steps Musical include multiple cities across the UK and Ireland — from Southampton and Belfast to Edinburgh and Blackpool — giving audiences nationwide opportunities to experience Sally Ann’s new role live on stage.
Her transition from the small screen to musical theatre also highlights the broader trend of soap actors moving fluidly between genres — from television to stage and back again — showcasing their full range and keeping their careers vibrant and dynamic.
The Legacy of Jenny Bradley
Jenny’s character arc on Coronation Street spanned generations, touching storylines that involved love, betrayal, family bonds, and personal redemption. Sally Ann’s portrayal earned her a permanent place in the hearts of Corrie fans and firmly established her as one of the show’s most memorable performers of her generation.
Now, as she brings her talents to the stage, audiences can celebrate both her legacy on TV and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead. Her journey from Weatherfield’s beloved landlady to leading lady in a major musical tour underscores her enduring star power and relentless drive as an artist.
Looking Ahead
As Here & Now: The Steps Musical begins its tour, all eyes will be on Sally Ann Matthews as she embarks on this thrilling new chapter. Whether it leads to more theatre work, potential TV roles beyond soap, or even further musical engagements, one thing is clear: she’s far from finished making her mark on the entertainment world.
For fans, her evolution from Coronation Street legend to stage star will be a journey worth following — and, without a doubt, it will be as entertaining as anything she’s done on screen.