Coronation Street legend Barbara Knox made a surprise appearance at Manchester Pride this summer, delivering a deeply meaningful message.
At 91, the iconic actress is best known for her role as Rita Tanner in the ITV soap, having first appeared in 1964 and becoming a regular character in 1972. Over the years, she has also established herself as a gay icon, evident from the fantastic turnout to see her during Manchester’s annual Pride celebrations in August.
Barbara took to the Alan Turing Stage, joining drag queen Belinda Scandal and Mark Llewellin, Deputy Lieutenant of Greater Manchester. Mark was also the partner of the late Roy Barraclough, who played Barbara’s co-star Alec Gilroy. The duo hosts Your Manchester, a weekly magazine show for the North West that also offers media training for students.
This incredible moment, captured in numerous fan videos, featured Mark and Belinda presenting Barbara with the inaugural Your Manchester Icon Award, followed by a heartfelt performance of Vera Lynn’s “We’ll Meet Again.”
Dressed primarily in black with a sparkling black and gold sequined jacket, Barbara, then 90, was visibly moved. Belinda held her hand, wearing a stunning pink sequined blazer.
After the song concluded, Barbara had a moment in the spotlight, becoming overwhelmed with emotion from the heartfelt occasion. “Amazing,” Belinda remarked as the crowd erupted in applause.
While on stage, Barbara shared an emotional message with the audience, recalling how she had often been promised roles early in her career, only to receive “one episode in a street.” She reflected on her first appearance in the soap, expressing her initial excitement at what she thought was her big break.
“Ten years later, I came back, and that’s been a wonderful, wonderful journey. It’s wonderful because of people like you. You are the backbone of everything the street has achieved. You are incredible, and Manchester is amazing; what you’ve created here is phenomenal!”
Barbara continued, “I’ve never been here before, but I’d love to return. It’s not always like this; I’ve never been booed, but I’ve lost my job—whatever! It’s so heartwarming to see what you’ve all built. You have your own little paradise, and that’s truly remarkable.”
She also praised the charities supported by the event, noting, “I’ve learned about the charities you’ve supported, and it’s incredible that every penny goes to them. Well done!”
What a true icon!
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