Coronation Street have confirmed the death of former star Cheryl Murray, who played Suzie Birchall.
The actress died aged 71 in September last year. Liverpool born Cheryl also had roles in Emmerdale and Brookside, but was famed for her Corrie role.
In a statement released today, an ITV spokesperson said: ‘We are saddened to hear of the recent passing of Cheryl Murray, our thoughts are with her family and friends.’
‘Her vibrant portrayal of Gail’s best friend and Elsie Tanner’s lodger Suzie Birchall lived on in the memories of Coronation Street fans long after Suzie left the cobbles for the bright lights of London.’
Peroxide blonde teenager Susie first arrived on the Street in 1977, having found a job alongside Gail Potter (Helen Worth) in clothes shop Sylvia’s Separates.
Despite an initial frosty reception, the two went on to become best pals and the two later lived together with fiery Elsie Tanner (Pat Phoenix) at No. 11.
After the girls were fired by Mike Baldwin (Johnny Briggs) they considered a new life in London, though after Suzie went alone, she soon returned to the familiar cobbled street.
She later went on to be bridesmaid at Gail’s first (of many) marriages, this time to Brian Tilsley (Christopher Quinten). Shortly afterwards, she left for the bright lights again – but this wouldn’t be the last we’d see of Cheryl Murray.
In 1983, she briefly returned, having separated from her abusive husband and moved back in with Elsie. She also found employment at the Rovers Return.
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Gail’s happy family life caused another rift between the two, and after an explosive showdown with Elsie she was ordered to leave. With her head held high, she left for a new start in Blackburn.
Cheryl’s last television appearance was in 2014, during a tribute to Helen Worth’s 40 year anniversary on the Street.
She had lived with multiple sclerosis for a number of years and had retired from acting in 1998.
‘Wonderful Cheryl Murray. Made Suzie Birchall into such a memorable character in only a short space of time. The Elsie, Suzie and Gail setup of the late 70s was wonderful’ said one fan on X.
Another added: ‘Very sad to hear the news that Cheryl Murray died last year,after a long period of ill health.’
‘She was best known for playing Suzie Birchall on Coronation Street for 3 years in the late 1970s,and a further 6 months in 1983- a character still fondly remembered by many. RIP Cheryl.’
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