ITV Coronation Street fans shocked as 'missing' soap icon returns - but there's bad news

A beloved Coronation Street star returned to the cobbles this week after ‘disappearing’ from soap. Telly legend Gail Platt (Helen Worth) has been a staple on the soap for five decades. Rocking up back in 1974, Gail has gone on to become one of the soap’s most beloved and iconic characters.

However, fans recently noticed that Gail has ‘gone missing’ from the soap recently after she failed to make an appearance in several episodes over the past few months. What’s more, in June it was confirmed that Gail actor Helen was leaving the soap. The actress was reportedly filming her final storyline - which at first, was due to see Gail’s ex-husband Martin Platt (Sean Wilson) return.

However, during Wednesday’s episode (September 5) Gail made a surprise appearance - much to the delight of fans. Along with the rest of the Platts, Gail attended Max Turner’s (Paddy Bever) 18th birthday at The Bistro.

READ MORE: Coronation Street's Helen Flanagan supported after 'nightmare' health update

READ MORE: Coronation Street fans slam soap's 'biggest mistake' after David Platt update

And fans were quick to share their excitement on social media about Gail’s soap appearance. Writing on X, one person proclaimed: “Gail!!! There she is!!”

A second chimed in and claimed: “GAIL!!!! That’s her first appearance since March the 25th.” Another viewer penned: “A sighting of the lesser spotted Gail. Happy days.” Someone else wrote: “GAIL APPEARANCE FINALLY.”

A sixth also said on the social media site: “Loved seeing Gail in last night’s episode treasuring every appearance now.” A seventh agreed: “Treasure any Audrey & Gail scenes from now til Xmas.”

Gail’s return to screens will no doubt feel bittersweet for viewers, as actress Helen is set to say her goodbye to the soap later this year. The news of Helen’s Coronation Street exit left fans devastated back in June.

Reflecting on her decision to leave, Helen expressed at the time: “This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world.”

She added: “I made the decision at the start of the year and spoke to the producers who were very kind and understanding. I have been truly blessed to have been given the most incredible scripts week in and week out, and to have worked with fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew. The past 50 years have flown by and I don't think the fact that I am leaving has quite sunk in yet."

Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX