West End star Jodie Prenger has joined the cast of Coronation Street.
The 43-year-old shot to stardom when she won BBC talent show I'd do Anything in 2008. Jodie went on to play Nancy in Oliver in the West End - and has since forged an impressive career in theatre.
Jodie played Miss Hannigan in Annie and the title role in Shirley Valentine. The actor is now set for a stint on the Cobbles as George Shuttleworth's sister, Glenda, and she described the role as a dream come true.
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She said: “I know I sound like a soppy sod, but it’s been on my bucket list to be in Coronation Street since I was little. It’s an honour, it truly is a very special moment in my life.
"To be part of something my family and I have loved for so long. And what a character, oh I have to say, total dream part. I can't wait for you all to meet fun and sassy Glenda, George Shuttleworth's sister.
"I love Tony Maudsley already, what a fella! Your first day on the cobbles is one of the most nerve wrecking experiences you’ll go though and everyone was just so gloriously lovely, kind and welcoming. It was, and is, everything I expected, and more.”
George has recently endured a turbulent time on Weatherfield after his former school bully arrived on the Cobbles. However, Glenda's arrival mean things are about to take a turn for the better for the Corrie undertaker.
Glenda will first appear on the show in early August and take up a role behind the bar at the Rovers Return. Corrie bosses said they can't wait for audiences to see the new character.
Producer Iain MacLeod said: "Glenda sails in fresh from the cruise ships with a whiff of the exotic, quickly making best friends and enemies in equal measure. The character is loads of fun and has echoes of classic Coronation Street females of old.
"Jodie is a fabulous talent and we are all very excited to have her aboard. She has felt very Corrie since the moment she stepped onto set and I think the viewers will love her.”
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday on ITV and ITV Hub
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