SAD NEWS: CORONATION STREET ICON STEPHANIE COLE DIES AGED 84 AFTER LIVING WITH ALZHEIMER’S DISEASE

The beloved actress, remembered for her unforgettable role as Sylvia Goodwin, leaves behind a remarkable television and theatre legacy spanning decades.

LONDON, UK — Fans are mourning the loss of Stephanie Cole, the acclaimed actress who brought warmth, wit and unforgettable personality to some of Britain’s best-loved television programmes.

Cole died on September 18, 2026, at the age of 84, after living with Alzheimer’s disease for several years. The news was confirmed by her agent, John Grant, in a statement released on behalf of her family.

For many Coronation Street viewers, she will always be remembered as Sylvia Goodwin, the sharp-witted mother of Roy Cropper whose arrival on the cobbles brought a distinctive energy to the long-running ITV soap.

A BELOVED FACE ON BRITISH TELEVISION

Cole appeared in Coronation Street between 2011 and 2013, winning over audiences with her portrayal of Sylvia, a character known for her blunt humour and strong personality.

Her performance earned her the British Soap Award for Best Comedy Performance, reflecting the affection viewers felt for the character.

But her career extended far beyond Weatherfield. She was also celebrated for her roles in Open All Hours, Waiting for God, Tenko and Doc Martin, among numerous other television and theatre productions.

Her versatility allowed her to move effortlessly between comedy and drama, creating characters that remained memorable long after their stories ended.

HER FAMILY SHARES THE SAD NEWS

In a statement announcing her passing, Cole’s agent described her as an extraordinary talent whose distinguished career included many iconic performances.

The statement said she had brought joy to millions through her work in television and theatre. It also highlighted her longstanding support for mental health charities.

Her family requested privacy as they grieve their loss.

The announcement prompted tributes from fans and colleagues, many of whom remembered not only her talent but also the lasting impression she made through her performances.

A LEGACY BEYOND THE SCREEN

Cole was also a committed supporter of dementia research. The charity BRACE, which she supported as an ambassador, paid tribute to her contribution and recalled her efforts to raise awareness of the disease.

Her career spanned decades and included acclaimed theatre work as well as television roles that introduced her to generations of viewers. In 2005, she was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE).

Her passing is a significant loss for British entertainment, but her performances remain available to audiences who wish to revisit the characters she brought to life.

FANS SAY THEIR GOODBYES

Following the announcement, viewers shared messages of sadness and gratitude, remembering Cole as a gifted actress whose work brought laughter and comfort into their homes.

For Coronation Street fans, Sylvia Goodwin remains one of her most recognisable roles. For others, memories of Waiting for God, Open All Hours and Doc Martin are equally important reminders of her remarkable range.

Though she is gone, the characters she created will continue to connect with audiences for years to come.

Rest in peace, Stephanie Cole. Thank you for the laughter, the performances and the memories. You will be remembered.

SOURCES

• The Guardian — https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2026/sep/18/stephanie-cole-coronation-street-and-open-all-hours-actor-dies-aged-84
• Sky News — https://news.sky.com/story/coronation-street-and-tenko-actress-stephanie-cole-has-died-13589313
• BRACE Dementia Research — https://www.alzheimers-brace.org/remembering-stephanie-cole-mbe/