Coronation Street icon Barbara Knox has inked a new contract ensuring her presence on the soap for at least another year. The deal means the actress, who plays Rita Tanner, will remain part of the show through its significant 65th anniversary.
Here’s the Lowdown: Knox, 91, has signed a deal that keeps her on the ITV soap until at least 2026. Having played Rita continuously since 1972, she is set to feature in the show’s 65th-anniversary celebrations this December. Knox is the second-longest serving television soap actor globally, behind only her co-star Bill Roache (Ken Barlow).
What This Means Now: Rita Tanner will continue to be a familiar face in Weatherfield for viewers. The agreement secures a key character for the upcoming anniversary storyline and reflects Knox’s ongoing commitment to the programme after more than five decades.
The Bigger Picture: This contract renewal highlights the value placed on long-serving actors within the soap opera genre. Knox’s continued role reinforces the connection viewers have with established characters and contributes to the show’s sense of history and stability as it approaches a major milestone. Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays on ITV1 and ITVX.
