Coronation Street fans floored by Bernie star's secret role on ITV soap from years ago

Corrie fans were astonished to learn that Bernie Winter, played by Jane Hazlegrove, had previously starred on the show.

Bernie made her grand entrance in 2019 as the mother of Gemma (Dolly-Rose Campbell), Paul (Peter Ash), and Kit (Jacob Roberts). Affectionately embraced by fans since arriving on the street as Gemma's mother, Bernie certainly made an impact.

The character has been at the centre of several significant storylines. From dealing with Pauls struggle with MND to various run-ins with the law, Bernie has experienced a fair share of ups and downs in Weatherfield.

Tragedy struck when her son Paul passed away in heart-wrenching episodes broadcast last September, leaving Bernie and her family devastated.

Jane Hazlegrove, well known for her roles in Dinnerladies, The Bill, Doctors, and as Kathleen "Dixie" Dixon in Casualty, is no stranger to television drama. But few realised she had made an appearance on Coronation Street in the distant past.

On a Facebook group dedicated to the soap, someone unearthed a snapshot of Jane in a 1985 episode, surprising fans with the caption: "Jane Hazlegrove in Corrie (1985) playing as Sue Clayton.", reports the Liverpool Echo.

Fans were quick to express their astonishment in the comments section, with one posting: "Aww my lord, she still looks the same." Another joined in, remarking: "Didn't realise she is Bernie just watching Corrie from 1985."

Another fan commented: "Hasn't changed at all." Adding to the chorus of praise, someone else observed: "I think she is quite a versatile actress as I have seen her in many different roles over the years and good in all of them." Yet another admirer noted: "She looks like Paul in the face, even down to the dimples."

Outside of her on-screen life, Jane is blissfully in love with her devoted soap star spouse Isobel Middleton, known for her roles in Emmerdale and EastEnders.

The couple exchanged vows in 2015 and have shared more than 28 years together. Speaking on Lorraine in 2019, the fair-haired star opened up about her partnership with Isobel, enthusing: "She's sensational, a really beautiful woman. I am very obsessed."

Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX

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