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Corrie star's whirlwind romance started on set
2 Oct
Summary
- Julie Hesmondhalgh met husband Ian Kershaw on Corrie set in 1998.
- Her character Hayley Cropper's storyline involved a terminal cancer diagnosis.
- She will appear in the upcoming Call the Midwife prequel.
Actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, celebrated for her portrayal of Hayley Cropper on Coronation Street, first met her husband, actor and screenwriter Ian Kershaw, in 1998 on the set of the ITV drama. Kershaw, who also wrote for the show, initially played Malcolm Bradford. Their friendship quickly developed into romance, and Hesmondhalgh famously told Kershaw she would marry him, leading to their wedding and two daughters.
Hayley Cropper's storyline on Coronation Street remains one of the soap's most poignant departures. The character, who was the first transgender character in a British soap opera, was diagnosed with incurable pancreatic cancer. After a difficult decision, Hayley ended her life, leaving her on-screen husband Roy devastated. This role garnered Hesmondhalgh significant accolades, including a National Television Award and a British Soap Award.
Beyond her iconic Corrie role, Hesmondhalgh has an extensive television and theatre career. She has appeared in shows like Broadchurch and Happy Valley, and received a Laurence Olivier Award in 2026 for her theatre performance. Her upcoming projects include a role as Sister Alice in the Call the Midwife prequel, Sisters in Arms, set against the backdrop of World War Two London.
