Sue Cleaver, the beloved actress who has portrayed the iconic Eileen Grimshaw on Coronation Street since 2000,

has spoken openly about her decision to leave the long-running ITV soap after an impressive 25 years.

The 61-year-old star, who has become a household name thanks to her feisty character,

is preparing for her departure but has expressed newfound confidence as she embraces this next chapter of her life.

Eileen has been at the centre of numerous gripping storylines over the years, with the character navigating everything from tumultuous relationships to dramatic family dynamics.

One of the most memorable plotlines involved her son, Todd, becoming a teenage father to Sarah Louise Platt’s child.

However, as Sue prepares to step away from Coronation Street in late spring, fans can rest easy knowing that Eileen won’t meet a tragic end—leaving the possibility for a future return open.

In a candid interview with Yours magazine, Sue shared her feelings about leaving a show that has been such a huge part of her life. Reflecting on her two-and-a-half-decade-long journey, she explained, “These few years have probably been my happiest decade.” Sue went on to explain that, while leaving is bittersweet, she’s feeling more confident than ever about the decision.

The actress also touched on the theme of reinvention, encouraging others to challenge the pressures placed upon them by society. “No matter what you do in life, we all get to that point where society tells us we’re at the end. I hear empty nesters say, ‘That’s it, my work is done now,’ but you can recreate yourself, and be brave,” she shared. Sue’s words resonate with anyone considering a major life change or trying to forge a new path, especially in their later years.

Beyond her iconic role on Coronation Street, Sue has remained a prominent figure in the entertainment world. She recently dazzled audiences in the UK tour of Sister Act, playing the role of Mother Superior, and has been a frequent panelist on Loose Women. With her diverse career and unyielding energy, it’s clear that Sue isn’t slowing down any time soon.

Before her long-running stint on Coronation Street, Sue had notable roles in Victoria Wood’s dinnerladies and Kay Mellor’s Band of Gold, which helped her build a solid foundation in the world of acting. Despite being known for her work in Corrie, she continues to inspire others with her emphasis on self-care, courage, and finding joy in life.

Sue has become a passionate advocate for embracing change and taking risks. She believes that courage is a muscle, one that needs to be exercised in order to grow. “People don’t have courage – it’s a muscle and, like everything else, you exercise it. Stop giving yourself a hard time, because you are unique and fantastic,” she said. Sue encourages everyone to follow their passions, whether it’s exploring new opportunities, learning something new, or simply doing things that bring happiness. She reminds people that they don’t need to take on huge challenges or aim for monumental feats, but instead, focus on activities that bring joy and fulfillment.

Reflecting on her departure from Coronation Street, Sue stated, “I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on Coronation Street. The door is still firmly open, but as I reached my 60th year I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures and live fearlessly.” Her decision to leave came after a thoughtful period of reflection and personal growth. Discussions about her departure began last summer following her break from the soap to perform in Sister Act. These conversations, Sue revealed, gave the writers ample time to craft a fitting storyline for Eileen’s exit while leaving the door open for a potential return.

As one of Coronation Street’s most enduring characters, Eileen Grimshaw’s departure will certainly leave a void in Weatherfield. However, Sue’s journey is far from over. With new projects on the horizon and a fresh outlook on life, it’s clear that she’s ready to embrace new adventures and continue inspiring those around her. Whether on stage, in front of the camera, or in her personal life, Sue Cleaver is living proof that it’s never too late to start something new and live life to the fullest.