MAUREEN LIPMAN’S SHOCKING RETIREMENT TEASE! IS THIS THE END OF EVELYN PLUMMER?

Maureen Lipman, best known for her unforgettable portrayal of Evelyn Plummer on Coronation Street, has stunned fans with her comments about potentially stepping back from acting. The legendary actress, now nearing her 80th birthday, opened up in a candid interview about the toll of soapland, her incredible career, and the looming possibility of retirement.

The Unexpected Departure of Evelyn Plummer:

Since joining Coronation Street in 2018, Lipman’s portrayal of Evelyn, Tyrone Dobbs’ sharp-tongued grandmother, has been one of the show’s highlights. Evelyn became more than just comic relief—she was the backbone of many heart-wrenching storylines, often offering unvarnished truths and brutal honesty. However, her last appearance in the soap in March 2025 left fans questioning if this was the final farewell for the character. Evelyn’s quiet exit after a family crisis, notably her daughter Cassie’s betrayal, was a fittingly understated end for such a complex character.

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While ITV has yet to confirm if this is Evelyn’s permanent departure, Lipman’s reflection on her career and the demands of soap life suggests it might be. The actress, who has had a multifaceted career in theatre, television, and film, made it clear that she is contemplating a quieter phase of her life.

Lipman’s Thoughts on Retirement:

In an emotional appearance on the 20 Questions podcast, Lipman discussed the realities of working in the fast-paced world of soap operas. “I’ll carry on as much as I’m wanted,” Lipman said. “I’ll carry on until my brain goes—or my legs.” Her no-nonsense approach to her career is both sobering and inspiring, particularly after spending six decades in the industry.

Although Lipman has never sought stardom for its own sake, her extensive body of work has earned her a reputation as a versatile and deeply human actress. She’s worked through pregnancies, personal challenges, and ups and downs in her career with grace, proving time and again that her passion for acting is unparalleled. “I’ve always worked,” she said. “Have I been bitter? No.”

The Struggles of Soapland:

Lipman also shared her frustrations with the realities of working in a soap. With the grueling shooting schedule of eight to ten scenes per day, she noted the lack of room for character depth and exploration. “It’s almost like radio, but there are cameras there,” Lipman explained. “You don’t get the chance to really explore the nuances of a character. It’s more about hitting your marks and getting the scene done.”

For an actress used to the depth and preparation of theatre, this can be creatively limiting. But despite these challenges, Lipman always brought her full range to Evelyn, portraying a character full of contradictions—a woman who was tough on the outside but carried the weight of regret and love on the inside. This depth is what made Evelyn Plummer such a beloved character, and Lipman’s portrayal is now etched in the hearts of Coronation Street fans.

A Career Defined by Wit and Heart:

Whether on the West End stage or in front of a camera, Maureen Lipman’s strength lies in her ability to find the heart in every character. As Evelyn, she found the humanity in a character who could easily have been a one-note matriarch. From her biting one-liners to her surprising acts of kindness, Lipman’s Evelyn became a character audiences could both laugh with and cry for.

Yet, despite Evelyn’s memorable moments, Lipman admits the pressures of a soap opera schedule have led her to reconsider her future. “It’s very complicated, a human life. You never just do one thing,” Lipman reflected. After a career full of highs, she may soon embrace a different rhythm—one outside the spotlight she’s occupied for decades.

What’s Next for Maureen Lipman?

While Lipman has not ruled out future roles, she made it clear she is taking time to reflect on the next chapter of her life. The actress is far from a household name solely for her soap work; she has a diverse career that spans both dramatic and comedic roles. Now, as she nears 80, she seems to be focusing on the life beyond acting that awaits her. For fans, there’s still a glimmer of hope that Evelyn could return, but whether or not Lipman steps back into the cobbles of Weatherfield remains uncertain.

For now, Coronation Street fans can only wait to see if this truly marks the end of Evelyn’s journey. Regardless of her future on the show, Maureen Lipman’s legacy is secure—one of honesty, wit, and a commitment to portraying complex, deeply human characters. Whether she returns to Weatherfield or not, her impact on the soap world, and the broader acting community, is undeniable.

Stay tuned as the story of Maureen Lipman’s incredible career continues to unfold, both on and off screen. Could this be the last we see of Evelyn Plummer? Only time will tell.

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