CORONATION Street legend Gabrielle Glaister is making a shock comeback as Debs Brownlow.
The cruise ship entertainer last appeared in Weatherfield in 22 years – but she’s set to make a return in the coming weeks.
Gabrielle is making a shock comeback to the cobbles
Will Mellor is also returning as killer Harvey Gaskell
Soap bosses are said to have pulled out all the stops to tempt actress Gabrielle back to the show.
A source told the Daily Star Sunday: “Gabrielle was approached by Corrie execs earlier this year.
“After a series of top-secret meetings, she signed on the dotted line.
“Everyone is now really excited about Debs returning to Weatherfield. It’s going to be a brilliant blast from the past for fans.”
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During her original stint in Weatherfield in 2000, Debs betrayed her own sister Natalie – played by Denise Welch – by stealing her boyfriend.
The insider added: “The writers are planning some great storylines for Debs. There’s going to be plenty of drama.”
Meanwhile Gabrielle isn’t the only big comeback planned for the cobbles.
Strictly star Will Mellor is said to be filming new scenes of Coronation Street as his ruthless alter ego, Harvey Gaskell.
Corrie residents have enough on their plate as it is but soap bosses always like to throw in a few more twists and turns.
Metro.co.uk reveals this Friday (August 12, 2022) that despite his character being behind bars, actor Will Mellor will be making an appearance in the Manchester-based drama.
The 46-year-old hasn’t been in the show since his dramatic exit in October, 2021, but is reportedly back on the set for an upcoming storyline.
Hints and clues about the cold-hearted drug dealer will be dropped in upcoming weeks, but details of the new storyline have yet to be revealed.
But what more damage could he cause to people he has already terrorised?
Many in Weatherfield are still reeling from Harvey’s horrific crimes.
As ITV viewers may remember, Sam (played by Jude Riordan) lost his mother Natasha Blakeman who was shot by Harvey after the criminal had broken in to attack Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson).
Harvey’s return could be full of terrible repercussions for Jacob Hay (Jack James Ryan) who has recently managed to get his life back on the straight and narrow alongside Amy Barlow.
The lad had been groomed to join a drug gang, which also affected Simon Barlow (Alex Bain) who Jacob was forced by Harvey to pursue.
Harvey already escaped prison once to wreak havoc in Coronation Street – could he find a way back out again?
But before Will can return, the actor will be slipping on his dancing shoes as he was confirmed as the first contestant of this year’s Strictly Come Dancing.
The Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps star will be joining fellow Corrie actress Kym Marsh.
“I’m honestly so chuffed to be taking part in Strictly Come Dancing this year!” Will said.
“Not going to lie, it’s totally out of my comfort zone and I know it will be a huge challenge but that’s what life is all about.”
“This is also my mum’s favourite show and she’s had a really tough few years so I’m doing this is for her as well. Bring it on!”
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday on ITV.
