After nearly a decade away, fan-favourite Julie Carp is back on the cobbles – but not everything is as it seems. Katy Cavanagh, who plays the beloved character, reveals how it felt to return, what viewers can expect, and why Julie’s reappearance is more than just a fleeting visit.
‘It was really lovely to get the call,’ Katy says. ‘I haven’t thought about Julie for many years, but I’m very fond of her. Coming back for Eileen’s departure story felt perfect – it’s closure for Julie and Eileen, and it’s been great fun working with Sue again. We go way back, so it’s a full-circle moment.’
For Katy, stepping back into Julie’s wonderfully eccentric wardrobe was like stepping back in time. ‘It was instant, thanks to the incredible costume team. Alex, the head of costume, was there when I was last on Corrie, and they got it just right. Everyone thought I was in my old costumes from 10 years ago, but it was all new – from my pyjamas to my handbag. It was emotional, joyful, and so comforting to get into her skin again.’
Julie’s return brings her face-to-face with some old wounds. ‘Seeing Todd at the hotel is a real shock for her. She’s frightened to meet her family again – she’s good at running away and sugar-coating things. But this time, she can’t escape reality. Todd is lovely to her, and she realises how much she’s loved. I don’t think she has the highest self-esteem, so it overwhelms her to see how much people care. That’s what stops her in her tracks and makes her realise she needs to be with these people.’
One of the biggest joys of returning was rekindling Julie’s on-screen relationships. ‘With Eileen, it was like I’d never been away. They’re total opposites, which makes them so funny together. Sue is such a fantastic actress, and we can go from comic moments to deep emotional scenes so easily. And with Brian – well, they’ve always been soulmates. He affirmed her, let her be herself, and celebrated her. Working with Peter again has been brilliant.’
Even after all these years, Julie is still a fan-favourite. ‘People recognise me all the time, even with the red hair! It’s staggering how loved Corrie is, and the fans are so warm and kind.’
And what can viewers expect from Julie this time? ‘She’s still the same fun-loving, rose-tinted Julie, but she’s hiding a secret from her family and friends. Not everything is as it seems…’
Coronation Street continues at 8pm tomorrow on ITV1
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