Soap star Barbara Knox, known for her role as Rita Sullivan on Coronation Street, is celebrating her 90th birthday. As she reaches this milestone, she takes a trip down memory lane and recalls her early days on the popular TV show. Knox will be joined by some of her Corrie co-stars in an ITV tribute show titled "Barbara Knox At 90." The show will give fans a glimpse into her journey and the friendships she has formed on the cobbles.
A Shaky Start
Knox vividly remembers her first day on the set of Coronation Street in 1972. She was terrified and nervous, shaking so much that she lost her voice. However, her co-star Pat Phoenix, who played Elsie Tanner, reassured her and helped calm her nerves. Despite the shaky start, Knox felt welcomed and looked after by the cast and crew. She initially had a short contract, but luckily, someone decided to keep her on the show.
Unexpected Nerves
Barbara Knox's co-star Bill Roache, who portrays Ken Barlow on the show, reveals that he had no idea she was so nervous during those early days. In fact, he thought she appeared relaxed and impeccable. Roache, now 91, is still a part of the TV celebration and speaks highly of Knox's performance and presence on the show.
A Trip Down Memory Lane
In the tribute show, Barbara Knox and presenter Bradley Walsh reminisce about her journey on Coronation Street, going back almost 60 years. Knox first appeared in a single episode as Rita Littlewood, an exotic dancer who made a quick stop at the Rovers for a drink. Eight years later, she returned to the show as Rita Bates and went on to have several name changes due to her character's marriages. Former co-stars Malcolm Hebden and Thelma Barlow also join Knox in the celebration.
Inspiration from Childhood
Knox shares that her love for showbusiness was inspired by her childhood experiences. She recalls going to cinemas as a young girl and being captivated by the glamour of the films. Trips to Blackpool, where she watched her parents dance at the Tower Ballroom and attended children's concerts, further fueled her desire to be part of the entertainment industry.
A Career in the Making
While working as a Post Office telegraphist, Knox decided to pursue acting in amateur theatre. It was during this time that she was discovered by Corrie producer Carl Paulsen, who offered her a role in the show. Despite having other commitments, Knox took the opportunity and never looked back. She credits Paulsen for kickstarting her nearly six-decade-long career on Coronation Street.
A Legendary Journey
Since her debut on Coronation Street, Barbara Knox has had a remarkable career. She holds the record for bringing in the show's largest audience, with over 27 million viewers tuning in to watch her character's dramatic storyline. Knox is now the second longest-serving cast member, only behind Bill Roache. Even after all these years, she still feels humble and amazed by the show's enduring popularity.
Barbara Knox At 90 will air on ITV at 9pm this Friday, giving fans a chance to celebrate the iconic actress and her contributions to Coronation Street.
