'I want Bob Dylan to join the cobbles'

Dame Maureen Lipman on ageing, her dream co-star in Corrie and overcoming tragedy

- JULIE ANN TRAINOR

She first appeared in Coronation Street in 2002, but Dame Maureen Lipman returned to the cobbles in 2018 as Tyrone Dobbs' feisty grandmother Evelyn Plummer. Despite her character's nature, Maureen was an instant hit with viewers - even earning a National Television Award nomination - but behind the scenes the actor has suffered unimaginable tragedy.

She sadly lost her beloved partner of 13 years, Guido Castro - a retired computer expert - to a COVID-related illness during the pandemic.

But two years later, she found happiness again with new partner David, who she simply refers to as her 'gentleman friend'. Discussing their dalliance, she confesses, 'It's a gift for all concerned... He's been very nice. I've met some nice men in my life, some really interesting men, and we will see where it goes.'

Reflecting on falling in love later in life, Maureen previously stated, 'I never expected to find love again after [my husband] Jack died.'

She and her playwright husband, Jack Rosenthal, were married for three decades before he passed away from cancer in 2004. They had two children together - Amy and Adam.

On-screen, Maureen's Corrie character has recently been reacquainted with her estranged daughter, played by former Brookside favourite, Claire Sweeney.