Sally Ann Matthews, who has been a key figure on Coronation Street for decades, has announced her departure from the show. The 54-year-old actress, best known for her portrayal of Jenny Connor (née Bradley), shared the news on August 1, 2025, confirming that she will be leaving after a decade-long return to the iconic ITV soap. Matthews has been a part of the Coronation Street family for almost 40 years, making her first appearance in 1986 when she was just 16 years old.

A Legacy of Drama: From Jenny’s Arrival to Her Departure

Jenny Connor, the daughter of villain Alan Bradley, became a beloved character after she was taken in by the kind-hearted Rita Tanner (Barbara Knox). Her first run on the show, from 1986 to 1991, was short but memorable. Sally’s portrayal of Jenny left a lasting impression on Coronation Street fans, though Matthews left the show in pursuit of other opportunities.

Sally returned briefly in 1993, but it was in 2015 when Jenny made her grand comeback. The storyline focused on Jenny’s complicated love life and her eventual relationship with Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell). This marked the beginning of a new era for the character, as Jenny was deeply woven into the fabric of Weatherfield, often at the center of some of the show’s most intense and heart-wrenching storylines. Sally’s return was initially intended to be a brief stint, but her chemistry with the cast and the fans’ love for her character led to her extending her stay for another ten years.

Throughout the years, Jenny’s turbulent relationships, personal struggles, and dramatic storylines kept viewers captivated. From being involved in a heart-wrenching child kidnap plot to her complicated relationships with men like Stephen Reid (Todd Boyce), Jenny’s character has been a core part of Coronation Street’s rich tapestry.

A Heartfelt Goodbye

In her departure announcement, Sally reflected on her time with Coronation Street, writing on Instagram: “I was supposed to stay for five months but ended up doing an extra ten years because I loved it so much! It’s time though to play those parts I always hoped I would when I’d ‘grown up.’ Thanks Trafford Wharf Rd for the memories and endless laughter.”

Fans flooded her post with messages of gratitude and sadness, expressing how much Jenny’s character had meant to them over the years. Many viewers also pointed out that her departure would leave a significant gap in Weatherfield, and Coronation Street would never be the same without her.

Sally’s comments about the nature of soap operas and relationships resonated deeply with fans, especially her thoughts on the importance of long-term, established relationships. She stated: “Obviously, it’s a soap and you can’t live happily ever after because there’s no drama in that, but then there is a lot to be said for characters having long-term, established relationships.”

Tributes from Co-Stars and Fans

The reaction from Sally’s co-stars has been equally heartfelt. Todd Boyce, who played Jenny’s complicated lover Stephen Reid, posted a loving tribute on Instagram, saying, “I was crazy about you before I joined Corrie again last time because you’re amazing, and then low & behold, was given the gift of being with Jenny on screen so much. Heaven.”

Boyce continued, “I will watch ‘every move you make’ as I have until now with admiration & awe & no doubt a bit of a chuckle because you got it all. Love you & thank you for being an amazing Coronation Street dame. What a golden baton you are passing on. It will take some doing to fill your shoes, Sal.”

Sally’s decision to leave the soap is bittersweet for both the actress and her fans. In many ways, Jenny has become a fixture of Coronation Street, and her absence will surely leave a noticeable void on the cobbles.

Looking Forward: What’s Next for Sally Ann Matthews?

While Coronation Street will undoubtedly miss Sally Ann Matthews’ portrayal of Jenny Connor, the actress’s departure marks the beginning of a new chapter in her career. Matthews has expressed excitement about exploring new roles and challenges, indicating that we haven’t seen the last of her remarkable talent.

“I’m excited about what’s next,” Sally said in her post. “It’s been an incredible journey on Coronation Street, but now I’m ready to take on new parts and new challenges.”

As for the Coronation Street fans, they’ll continue to cherish the legacy of Jenny Connor and the indelible mark Sally Ann Matthews has left on the soap opera. Her portrayal of Jenny has been a cornerstone of many viewers’ experience with the show, and she’ll always be remembered fondly by the Corrie faithful.

Conclusion: A Golden Legacy

Sally Ann Matthews’ exit from Coronation Street brings to a close a significant chapter in the soap’s long history. Her portrayal of Jenny Connor was not just a fan favorite, but a pivotal part of the show’s emotional heart. While the cobbles will undoubtedly feel her absence, Sally’s impact on Coronation Street will remain etched in the minds and hearts of fans for years to come.

As she steps into new acting opportunities, we look forward to seeing what lies ahead for this incredibly talented actress. For now, we bid farewell to Jenny Connor with a sense of gratitude for the unforgettable moments and the lasting legacy she leaves behind.