Coronation Street viewers have been left puzzled after spotting George Shuttleworth’s fresh romantic interest.

George (Tony Maudsley) has endured a tough period lately on the ITV soap. Back in June, he parted ways with Eileen Grimshaw (Sue Cleaver), when Eileen departed the cobbles after a quarter of a century.

The duo initially kindled their romance several years ago and eventually shared a home together. However, this year their relationship petered out following the heartbreaking passing of Eileen’s sister Julie (Katy Cavanagh).

Since that time, George has remained devastated, but last week his sister Glenda (Jodie Prenger) enrolled him on a dating platform. Despite initial reluctance, George eventually warmed to the idea, reports the Daily Star.

During Monday’s episode (August 11), George ventured out for a rendezvous with a lady named Samantha, with whom he’d been corresponding through the application. At the Rovers, Samantha turned up but immediately Glenda identified her as a former primary school mate.

Regrettably for George, Samantha devoted the whole evening to reminiscing about her school years with Glenda, leaving George thoroughly disappointed.

Nevertheless, following Samantha’s first appearance on the programme, fans have been baffled as they “recognise” the performer portraying her. On a Corrie Facebook fan page, one viewer queried: “Can someone tell me what George’s date has been in before? I recognise her.”

Another fan echoed the sentiment with: “Same here.” A third contributed: “The internet says Emmerdale and Grange Hill apparently.”

Samantha is portrayed by actress Liz Carney. Her Emmerdale appearances include roles as a liaison officer in May 2008 and a therapist in October 2010.

She returned to the soap in February 2014 as an unnamed woman, and took on the character of Janet in January 2020.