Kimberly Hart-Simpson, known for her role as Nicky Wheatley on Coronation Street, has shared a deeply personal revelation with her fans: she was diagnosed with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) at the age of 38. The actress took to Instagram to discuss her journey with ADHD, which she had kept private for the past eight months.
In her post, Hart-Simpson explained that growing up in a generation where mental health and neurodiversity were not openly discussed, receiving an ADHD diagnosis came as a significant turning point in her life. She recalled the reaction many have when they first learn about ADHD, saying, “I did the classic reaction of run a marathon / go to Thailand on your own / start a million new side projects.”
Reflecting on her experience, she shared that it took time for her to process the diagnosis. “I stayed silent to untangle 38 years worth of WTF,” she said. She also mentioned how running, something she took up to help her understand herself better, gave her the space to begin comprehending her life through the lens of ADHD. “I am actually happy I have received the diagnosis I did, it’s helpful for me,” Hart-Simpson explained, adding that while she’s still figuring out what to do with this knowledge, it has been a step forward in understanding herself.
The actress admitted that her ADHD isn’t something new, but something that she had likely dealt with all her life. “I haven’t just developed it, I have clearly had it all my life, but I have only just admitted it, so it’s going to be a process,” she added.
The response to her post was overwhelmingly supportive. Her former Coronation Street co-stars, including Bhavna Limbachia (Rana Habeeb) and Jack James Ryan (Jacob Hay), responded with heart emojis, while many of her fans shared their own experiences with ADHD and neurodiversity in the comments section.
Kimberly Hart-Simpson’s Career Beyond Coronation Street
Kimberly Hart-Simpson’s character, Nicky Wheatley, first appeared in Coronation Street as a sex worker hired by Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard) to help him cope with the grief of losing his wife, Sinead Tinker (Katie McGlynn). Nicky’s storyline later evolved as she returned to Weatherfield to support Daniel during the missing persons storyline with Lauren Bolton (Cait Fitton).
Beyond Coronation Street, Hart-Simpson has appeared in Hollyoaks, Brassic, and Celebs Go Dating: The Mansion. She also runs her own fashion brand, Hart-Work, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit.
Her open discussion about her ADHD diagnosis has sparked important conversations about mental health and neurodiversity, especially within the entertainment industry. It has undoubtedly resonated with fans who admire her honesty and bravery in sharing such a personal story.