Actress Lorna Laidlaw, known to Coronation Street fans as nurse Aggie Bailey, has quietly departed the long-running soap opera. Her departure was confirmed by media reports on June 11, 2024, more than a year after she was last seen on the popular Manchester-based show.
Laidlaw initially joined Coronation Street in 2019 after making a name for herself in the BBC series Doctors. Her character, Aggie Bailey, was a nurse at Weatherfield General and quickly became a beloved member of the Bailey family, involved in several major storylines. However, fans have noted her absence since the summer of 2023, which saw her missing significant events affecting her on-screen family.
Aggie’s disappearance was explained within the narrative as her temporarily relocating to Birmingham to care for an ailing aunt. Viewers had expected Aggie to eventually return, particularly given key family developments. Her daughter, Dee-Dee Bailey, is currently planning her wedding to Joel Deering, a character who has recently drawn attention due to hidden secrets threatening their relationship.
According to recent reports, Laidlaw will not be returning to the iconic ITV soap. Sources suggest that the actress has permanently departed from the role, effectively ending speculation about her character’s potential comeback. This news comes as a disappointment to many fans who anticipated her return, particularly ahead of the significant family event surrounding Dee-Dee’s upcoming wedding.
The Sun revealed details surrounding Laidlaw’s departure, reporting that the decision is final. On-screen, Aggie Bailey’s exit was explained by a storyline involving the character traveling to Birmingham to care for her ailing aunt. Off-screen, however, Laidlaw has reportedly moved on professionally, with insiders confirming that there are no current plans for her return.
Sources have elaborated on Laidlaw’s next professional move, noting her positive experience with the Coronation Street production team but emphasizing her decision to explore new opportunities. She is currently involved in another undisclosed project, described as offering an enjoyable and supportive environment for the cast and crew. The decision has reportedly been amicable, without any conflict behind the scenes.
Laidlaw’s exit follows a period of significant fan speculation about her future on the show, especially given the forthcoming wedding storyline involving Aggie’s daughter Dee-Dee. Many viewers had anticipated a dramatic reunion or return, given the high-stakes storyline set to unfold with Joel Deering’s mysterious past. However, it seems that the production has chosen to proceed without Aggie’s direct involvement.
This news aligns with a recent pattern observed among other Coronation Street actors taking extended breaks or leaving the show altogether. Recently, actress Sally Dynevor, who portrays Jenny Connor, hinted at a prolonged absence from the show via her Instagram, noting she had considerable free time from the soap and hinting at pursuing other opportunities abroad. This development added further intrigue regarding ongoing casting decisions and potential new directions for Coronation Street.
Fans are left reflecting on Aggie Bailey’s tenure in Weatherfield, recognizing her significant contribution to the Bailey family’s dynamics and the larger narratives within the show. Coronation Street has yet to officially comment on Laidlaw’s departure, but it’s clear her absence marks a notable change in the program’s cast and storytelling strategies moving forward.
