10 October 2023 , 09:46
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Coronation Street fans have reacted with joy after the show revealed some exciting news regarding its legendary star, Barbara Knox.
The actress, who turned 90 last month, became a household name after landing the role of Rita Tanner (nee Littlewood) in 1964.
Originally cast for a single episode that year as an exotic dancer, Barbara returned to the soap on a permanent basis in 1972 – a role she still holds to this day. Famed for her position as owner of The Kabin newsagents in Weatherfield, Barbara's character has been involved in countless major storylines over the decades with sidekicks Mavis Riley and Norris Cole, and husbands Len Fairclough, Ted Sullivan and Dennis Tanner.
Rita also holds a Corrie record having been proposed to on 15 occasions by 12 different male characters. Now, to mark her huge milestone birthday, ITV will pay homage to the star in a show dedicated to her career.
Barbara Knox at 90 will air on ITV1 and ITVX on Friday (October 13), with the veteran actress joined by host Bradley Walsh as they look back on her remarkable life in television and theatre. The special programme will trace Barbara's first footsteps into showbusiness, before reflecting on her most treasured memories from her time on the famous cobbles.
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Barbara will also revisit one of Corrie's most famous scenes, which saw a tram crash in 1989, and look back on the awarding of her MBE in 2010. The documentary will also feature interviews with Barbara's co-stars past and present as she shares snaps from her private life, which she has always kept close to her chest.
The ITV tribute to Barbara will be hosted by Bradley WalshSharing news of the show's broadcast on X, Coronation Street's account wrote: "Barbara Knox At 90. Friday 13th October. 9pm. ITV1. It's going to be a special one." Viewers were quick to express their excitement, meanwhile, with one declaring: "No way is she 90, my jaw is on the floor, I don't believe it."
Another added: "How amazing does she look at her age wow! Happy birthday." A third wrote: "Omg 90 congratulations Barbara you never look that and we love your character, Happy birthday."
A fourth penned: "90! Holy mackerel she looks good for her age. And she still remembers her lines!" And a fifth simply said: "Hope I'm this glamorous at 90."