Coronation Street‘s Rita Tanner vows to scale back her commitments at The Kabin in tonight’s episode.

The soap legend makes the surprise announcement as a favour to her former foster daughter Jenny Connor, who’s in desperate need of a new job.

Jenny’s time in charge of the Rovers Return is coming to an end as the pub’s owner Carla Connor has decided to sell to new owners.

In tonight’s episode, Jenny confirms that the deeds to the pub have been officially signed over to Carla. Although Jenny is still in charge for the time being, it’s clear that her days are numbered with the planned sale now inevitable.

Later, Jenny boldly asks Kabin owner Brian Packham whether he has any jobs available at the local newsagents.

Brian insists that he’s fully staffed – not least with Rita still working there – but the local legend appears to have other ideas…

“I wouldn’t be hasty, love,” Rita explains. “I’m a woman of a certain age and I’m hoping to wind down a little. And I’m sure there may be some vacancies.”

Brian scoffs at the idea of losing “a vital cog in the machine”, but Rita replies: “Well, this old cog is going to wear out if I don’t ease up. So think on!”

Finally satisfied, Brian respects Rita’s wishes and tells Jenny that she’s hired.

While it doesn’t sound like Rita wants to bow out altogether, her plans to cut back mark a change in direction for the soap icon. After all, she’s been associated with The Kabin in different roles since 1973.

Rita was previously owner of the newsagents, although she sold her remaining share of the business to Norris Cole in 2009 and stayed on as one of the staff. Brian bought the shop in 2019.

Corrie fans have noticed The Kabin appearing far less frequently in recent years – could that change with Jenny now moving over for a fresh start? Let’s hope so…

The show airs these scenes tonight at 8pm on ITV1, while the episode is streaming now on ITVX.