"Coronation Street" Actress Anne Kirkbride Dies Aged 60

    The actress, who played Deirdre Barlow in the popular TV show, passed away after a short illness.

    Richard James
    by Richard James

    BuzzFeed News Reporter, UK

    Coronation Street actress Anne Kirkbride has died at the age of 60.

    Getty Images Christopher Furlong

    ITV said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that David Beckett has confirmed tonight that his beloved wife and Coronation Street actress Anne Kirkbride has passed away peacefully in a Manchester hospital after a short illness."

    The cast and the crew were said to be "heartbroken and deeply saddened" at the news.

    Kirkbridge played Deidre Barlow in Coronation Street for 44 years.

    PA

    Kieran Roberts, executive producer of the popular soap, said: "There are no words to describe the sense of grief we feel at Anne's passing.

    "We know only too acutely how much Anne meant to the millions of people who watched her create the legendary character of Deirdre Barlow.

    "She will be greatly missed by the Coronation Street team who share happy memories of working with her. We feel blessed and honoured to have known her. Our thoughts are with David and their family."

    William Roache, who played her on-screen husband Ken Barlow, said in a statement on Monday: "I feel Anne's loss so personally having worked closely with her for over 40 years."

    PA / Anna Gowthorpe

    "She was such a loving and vibrant person. You always knew she was there because her laugh was never far away.

    "She was an impeccable performer with superb comedy timing and an immense gift for really heightened drama.

    "We had some rows over the years as Ken and Deirdre and it was wonderful to play those scenes opposite her. Anne will be greatly missed."

    Other co-stars and fellow actors also paid their tributes:

    Samia Ghadie @realsamia

    #RIP to a wonderful unforgettable lady.. Anne Kirkbride . We will miss you so very much x

    Reply Retweet Favorite
    Beverley Callard @Beverleycallard

    My beautiful darling friend, Anne Kirkbride, passed away in a room filled with love. God Bless, my Darling Girl! Peace and rest!

    Reply Retweet Favorite
    Adam Woodyatt @AdamWoodyatt

    Such sad news about Anne Kirkbride. My thoughts are with her family and all the Corrie cast and crew.

    Reply Retweet Favorite
    Les Dennis @LesDennis

    So very sad to hear our lovely Anne Kirkbride has died. One of the true icons of @itvcorrie. We will all miss you. The nations favourite.

    Reply Retweet Favorite

    Famous for her large glasses and husky voice, Kirkbride's character Deirdre Barlow became a favourite among fans during her four decades on the show, ITV said.

    Andi McLellan @AndiMcLellan

    xx #corrie

    Reply Retweet Favorite

    Kirkbride is survived by her husband, David, her brother, John, and his family.