In a dramatic career pivot, beloved Coronation Street actress Sally Ann Matthews is trading the Rovers Return for the bright lights of the West End. The star, synonymous with the character of Jenny Bradley for nearly four decades, has secured a leading role in the hit stage musical HERE & NOW, built around the songs of pop group Steps.
From Pub Landlady to Stage Star
Matthews will take on the part of Patricia in the vibrant production, a world away from the troubles of her Weatherfield alter ego. She steps into the role originally played by Finty Williams, with her first performance scheduled for 23 January 2026. This marks her first major project since her emotional departure from the ITV soap in October 2025.
The casting highlights a striking contrast for viewers. For years, Matthews portrayed Jenny Bradley, the complex and often troubled landlady of the Rovers Return. Patricia, however, exists in the feel-good, high-energy universe of jukebox musical theatre, surrounded by pop anthems and romance.
A 39-Year Street Legacy
Sally Ann Matthews' association with Coronation Street is nothing short of iconic, spanning an incredible 39 years. She first appeared as Jenny in 1986, leaving in 1991 before brief returns. Her full-time comeback in 2015 cemented her as a central figure, navigating some of the soap's most explosive storylines and personal tragedies until her exit last autumn.
While best known for her soap work, Matthews is no stranger to the stage. She has balanced her television success with an impressive theatre career, including UK tours of productions like Present Laughter and The Accrington Pals at Bolton Octagon. This move into a large-scale musical is a natural progression for an actress with extensive live performance experience.
Stepping into a Pop Paradise
The musical HERE & NOW is produced by Steps themselves alongside ROYO and Pete Waterman. It features an original book by Shaun Kitchener and is directed by Rachel Kavanaugh, with choreography by Olivier Award-winner Matt Cole.
The story follows Caz and her friends dreaming of the ultimate summer of love, with a soundtrack featuring Steps' biggest hits, including:
- Tragedy/Heartbeat
- Stomp
- One For Sorrow
- 5,6,7,8
- Last Thing On My Mind
For fans accustomed to seeing her pulling pints in the Rovers, Sally Ann Matthews' transformation into Patricia promises a thrilling new spectacle. This role powerfully showcases her versatility, proving that after defining an iconic soap character for generations, she is boldly embracing a fresh challenge, right in the spotlight.
