Alan Halsall has shared an emotional reaction to the news that his on-screen mother Claire Sweeney is leaving Coronation Street. The actress, who joined the ITV soap in 2023 as Cassandra Plummer, is departing after three years to return to musical theatre, taking on the role of Miss Hannigan in the touring production of Annie.
Halsall, who plays Tyrone Dobbs, responded to Sweeney's Instagram post announcing her new role with a comment that read: "Mummmm…???" accompanied by a heart, a shocked face, and a crying-laughing emoji. Sweeney's post confirmed she will begin performances from 7th July 2026, with tickets already on sale.
A Coronation Street spokesperson confirmed that Cassie will remain on the cobbles until the summer, with an exit storyline planned. Sweeney's character has been involved in dramatic plots, including a drug addiction and drugging Ken Barlow, which led to her being disowned by Tyrone before a reconciliation.
Sweeney has a strong stage background, having appeared in productions such as Chicago, Hairspray, and Legally Blonde, as well as TV roles in Brookside and Celebrity Big Brother. The Annie tour begins in May, with La Voix playing Miss Hannigan initially before Sweeney takes over for later dates.
