Coronation Street actress Sally Dynevor recently shared that she would approach her character’s breast cancer storyline differently now, drawing from her own battle with the disease. The 62-year-old, known for her role as Sally Metcalfe on the ITV soap since 1986, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2009 at age 46. Coincidentally, she received her diagnosis on the same day she filmed the scene where her character reveals the news to her on-screen husband.

In an interview with Prima magazine, Dynevor expressed how her personal experience would influence her portrayal of the storyline. Reflecting on her past performance, she noted that having gone through breast cancer herself made her realize the depth of emotions and the need to mask pain from loved ones.

The actress admitted, “I think there are moments in the show that, like the breast cancer storyline, which, if I went back, I think I would have done very differently. In the sense that because I got it myself, I realized what it was like to go through breast cancer and how much you hide your pain from people you love.”

Dynevor emphasized her gratitude for being able to return to work after a period of absence due to her health. She described her role on Coronation Street as the “perfect job” and expressed astonishment at having remained in the role for over four decades, a tenure she never anticipated.

Regarding retirement, Dynevor shared her reluctance, stating, “I don’t think I’m ever going to retire. I’ll stay here as long as they want me; if they don’t want me anymore, I’ll still try to do something, because the idea of retirement just sounds awful to me!”

The actress, who is married to Emmerdale scriptwriter Tim Dynevor and has three children, including actress Phoebe Dynevor of Bridgerton fame, was honored with an MBE for her contributions to drama in the 2021 New Year Honours.

Dynevor concluded by highlighting her enthusiasm for her work, emphasizing the joy she finds in being surrounded by young, dynamic individuals who inspire her daily. She expressed her passion for her craft and dismissed the notion of retirement, preferring to remain engaged in her profession and the ever-evolving world around her.