BBC Morning Live’s Kym Marsh supported as she makes 'epic' career announcement

BBC Morning Live presenter and Coronation Street star Kym Marsh has announced a major career move away from television. The Waterloo Road actor will be taking on the lead role as Cruella de Vil in 101 Dalmatians the musical.

It will be the hit family musical's first UK and Ireland tour, and will kick off in June 2024. This new musical, which sees fashionista Cruella de Vil plot to swipe all the Dalmatian puppies in town to create her fabulous new fur coat, is written by Douglas Hodge and Johnny McKnight from a stage adaptation by Zinnie Harris.

Tour dates include locations including Cardiff, Birmingham, Manchester, Newcastle, Dublin, Liverpool, and Aberdeen. Taking to social media to announce the new role Kym told her 614,000 Instagam followers: "I’ve got a tail-wagging announcement for you so lock up your puppies.. Cruella has arrived!

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"I’m so excited to reveal I will be starring as the greatest villain of them all, Cruella De Vil, in the smash-hit musical, 101 Dalmatians! @101dalmatiansuk. Our UK and Ireland Tour starts on June 22 so get your paws on tickets now!"

Kym was flooded with support as fans took to the comments section. "Wow you kept that one quiet... brilliant," wrote one, while another added: "This is epic," and a third said: "Wooooo!!!! CANT WAIT!!"

Celebrity friends also showed their support as Amanda Abbington wrote: "This is PHENOMENAL news! Congratulations dear friend!" while Ellie Simmonds said: "This is amazing!! You're going to be amazing."

Kym also spoke about her new role on Morning Live telling hosts Gethin Jones and Michelle Ackerely the role has "come at a good time" following the death of her dad. Kym's dad, Dave, passed away from prostate cancer in January 2024 and he often appeared on Morning Live to talk openly and raise awareness.

She she said: "The sad part is that he won't be around to see it but he would have loved it – he would have been so thrilled to see me play this part. But it has come at a good time, given me a bit of a lift and something to get my head into and really look forward to." You can read more on this here. You can keep up to date with the latest TV and showbiz news by signing up to the newsletter here.