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Coronation Street star Cheryl Murray dies aged 71
10 October 2024, 18:23
Coronation Street star Cheryl Murray has died aged 71.
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Cheryl first appeared In the soap in 1977, her character, Suzie Birchall, becoming best friends with Gail Potter.
She was written out in 1979 before making a brief return in 1983.
The actress died in September last year, with her cause of death unknown.
An ITV spokesperson said on Thursday: "We are saddened to hear of the recent passing of Cheryl Murray, our thoughts are with her family and friends.
"Her vibrant portrayal of Gail’s best friend and Elsie Tanner’s lodger Suzie Birchall lived on in the memories of Coronation Street fans long after Suzie left the cobbles for the bright lights of London."
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Cheryl also appeared as Joan Wainwright in 1980s sitcom Hi-de-Hi! as well as working opposite Ronnie Corbett in an episode of Sorry!
She was in the music video for Morrissey's Everyday is Like Sunday too.
During her time on Coronation Street, Cheryl was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis, forcing her to retire early.
Tributes have since poured in on social media, with one fan saying: "Thinking of Cheryl Murray and her family. It takes someone truly special to make such a tremendous mark on the show as she did in only two years."
Another person said: "Sorry to hear that Cheryl Murray has passed away, and such a pity we only find out over a year later."
A third fan added: "Very sad to hear the news that Cheryl Murray died last year,after a long period of ill health. She was best known for playing Suzie Birchall on Coronation Street for 3 years in the late 1970s, and a further 6 months in 1983 - a character still fondly remembered by many. RIP Cheryl."