Debbie Webster’s Future Revealed: Corrie Star Confirms Long-Term Role Amid Powerful Dementia Plot

Fans of Coronation Street can breathe a sigh of relief—Debbie Webster isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. In a recent interview, actress Sue Devaney, who plays the sharp-tongued and business-savvy Debbie, confirmed that she has signed on to remain with the ITV soap for the foreseeable future, even as the show tackles one of its most emotional and socially relevant storylines to date: a heart-wrenching battle with dementia.

Speaking to Inside Soap, Devaney opened up about what’s ahead for her character, her role in the unfolding dementia plot, and why she’s proud to be part of a storyline that “truly matters.” The actress, who originally appeared as Debbie in the early 1980s and returned full-time in 2020, said that scripts for the next several months are already in place—and Debbie will continue to play a major part in Weatherfield’s community as tragedy unfolds around her.

“I’m very lucky,” Devaney said. “The writers have found this perfect blend of drama and comedy for Debbie. Even though she’s not at the center of every story, she’s often the glue that connects people in the Street—and in this dementia plot, she becomes a quiet force of support.”

The dementia storyline revolves around one of the show’s long-running characters, who is slowly beginning to show signs of memory loss and confusion. While ITV has yet to confirm exactly who the character is, there has been heavy speculation among fans that it could involve either Rita Tanner, Evelyn Plummer, or Roy Cropper. Regardless of who is affected, Debbie finds herself drawn into the situation in a way that highlights her compassion and her often-hidden vulnerability.

“Sue Devaney has this incredible ability to be fierce and funny, but also deeply heartfelt when it counts,” said Corrie producer Iain MacLeod. “Debbie will become an emotional anchor in the coming months, especially as the reality of the illness sets in for those around the affected character.”

Devaney, who has real-life experience supporting a loved one with dementia, said the storyline hits close to home. “It’s something many of us face, or will face. I think it’s incredibly important that Corrie doesn’t shy away from showing the truth of it—the frustration, the grief, but also the love and the moments of light. And Debbie, who’s so bold and unfiltered, has these really surprising moments of quiet kindness.”

Viewers have already begun to notice Debbie’s softening tone in recent episodes. While still running the Bistro and maintaining her sharp edge, she’s been seen checking in more on friends, asking questions about memory and mental health, and showing unexpected concern. Her involvement will deepen, according to upcoming spoilers, when she helps another character navigate the heartbreaking process of seeking a diagnosis for a parent or partner.

Longtime fans will remember that Debbie Webster is the younger sister of Kevin Webster and has been in and out of Weatherfield over the years. Her return in 2020 added a jolt of energy to the show—her no-nonsense attitude, fearless business approach, and often hilarious one-liners quickly made her a fan favourite.

However, Devaney has always said she wants Debbie to be more than comic relief. “People underestimate women like Debbie,” she said. “She’s been through a lot, and I think showing her facing something like dementia—being part of a story that’s so human and so raw—it lets us show another side of her.”

ITV has worked closely with dementia charities to ensure accuracy and sensitivity in the storyline. The show has previously been praised for tackling serious issues such as cancer, suicide, and coercive control. According to the producers, this dementia arc will unfold over many months, giving characters and viewers time to process and understand the emotional depth of the illness.

“The aim is not to rush it,” MacLeod said. “This is a journey—for the person affected, and for those around them. And Debbie will play a key role, sometimes offering comic relief, sometimes providing real emotional support, and sometimes simply being there.”