Actress Anne Kirkbride, who played Deirdre Barlow on Corrie, has died at the age of 60. Her husband David confirmed the news, saying Anne passed away peacefully after a short illness.
Coronation Street Executive Producer Kieran Roberts said: "There are no words to describe the sense of grief we feel at Anne's passing. We know only too acutely how much Anne meant to the millions of people who watched her create the legendary character of Deirdre Barlow.
"She will be greatly missed by the Coronation Street team who share happy memories of working with her. We feel blessed and honoured to have known her. Our thoughts are with David and their family."
ITV Director of Television Peter Fincham added: "Anne has been a truly loyal servant to Coronation Street since joining the programme in the early 1970s. She created a unique and unforgettable character in Deirdre Barlow and she'll be greatly missed on and off screen.
"Our sincerest condolences to Anne's husband David and her family at this very sad time."
Anne's husband has appealed for privacy.
