Beloved Corrie legend ‘clearly not returning’ as fans ‘work out’ emotional death twist
Coronation Street Emily Bishop was one of the longest-serving stars of a UK soap - but now fans fear an off-screen death could be on the cards for the beloved character
Corrie: Emily Bishop makes final appearance in 2019
Coronation Street fans fear that a death twist is in store for soap legend Emily Bishop.
Emily, played by Eileen Derbyshire, made her Corrie debut way back in 1961. As a beloved Weatherfield resident, Emily became a hit with fans and a staple on the soap.
What’s more, Eileen didn't leave until 2016 - making her one of the longest-serving stars of a UK soap. Only Bill Roache has been on the show longer than her, playing Ken Barlow since the first episode in 1960.
The actress left the show for personal reasons and at the time it wasn't clear whether her departure was permanent or not. Emily's exit was explained as a trip to Peru to spend time with a relative.
It was then revealed that Emily is now living in Edinburgh. And in 2019, fans were thrilled when she popped up in an episode of the ITV soap.
Emily appeared as her close pal Ken Barlow (William Roache) celebrated his 80th birthday in the Rovers Return surrounded by his friends and family. She wasn't there to celebrate with him in person but had recorded a video message for her old friend.
At the time, soap insiders said Corrie bosses were keen to get the actress back on the cobbles. However, now fans are fearing that the character could be killed off in a shock twist as they think she is “clearly not returning.”
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Over in a Corrie fan forum, one person mused: “Is it time she was killed off as she is clearly not returning to the show? Time for Emily to have a proper send-off deserving for a long-serving character.”
A second added: “I would like Emily to return and give her an onscreen death.” A third penned: “She's such an iconic character someone on the Street should get some notice about it..”
Someone else chimed in and added: “I don't think there is a chance Eileen Derbyshire will return again.” A fourth replied: “They still have the power to kill her off-screen and give her an on-screen funeral. But I guess after all this time there isn't really much point.”