For decades, Maureen Lipman has been a beloved presence on British television, and her role as the witty, sharp-tongued Evelyn Plummer in Coronation Street has cemented her as one of the soap’s most iconic characters. But behind Evelyn’s biting sarcasm and no-nonsense attitude lies a woman who has quietly endured struggles few fans were aware of—until now. In a candid and emotional revelation, Lipman opened up about the intense behind-the-scenes challenges she has faced while filming Coronation Street, shocking long-time viewers and casting a new light on her brilliant performances. While her character often delivers cutting one-liners with ease, the actress herself has been battling personal and professional hurdles that made each scene far more difficult than it appeared.

Lipman confessed that one of the most overwhelming struggles came from the isolation she felt during COVID-19 restrictions. “We were acting through glass, emotionally and physically,” she shared in a recent interview. Although the soap managed to continue production during the pandemic, the toll it took on its cast was considerable. Lipman admitted that acting without physical contact, chemistry, or even simple human closeness drained much of the joy from her work. “We couldn’t touch. We couldn’t hug. We were told to stay apart—even in the most emotional scenes,” she explained. For a performer like Lipman, who thrives on connection and nuance, this created a silent battle behind each take.

But beyond the pandemic-related hurdles, Lipman also revealed the deeper emotional toll of aging in the industry. Despite her legendary status, she expressed how difficult it is to feel constantly judged by appearance and energy levels in a fast-paced filming environment. “There’s this unspoken pressure to always be sharp, always on point. If you’re tired or off-form, you worry about being seen as past your prime.” Her words struck a chord with many older actors in the industry, who often face similar unspoken challenges as they try to remain relevant in a youth-driven media landscape.

Lipman went further, describing the long filming hours, early call times, and the sheer speed at which Coronation Street operates. “You’re handed your script, and sometimes within 24 hours, you’re expected to be emotionally raw and camera-ready,” she said. The constant demands of soap life, combined with the pressure to perform flawlessly, can be overwhelming—even for veterans like her. While fans only see the final polished product, the reality behind the scenes is often chaotic, rushed, and emotionally taxing. Lipman admitted that there were days she felt like walking away. “I’ve cried in my dressing room more than once,” she confessed.

What makes this revelation so surprising to fans is the fact that Lipman has always appeared so composed and confident on screen. Evelyn Plummer is known for her razor-sharp wit and steely exterior—traits that viewers have come to admire. But Lipman revealed that playing such a strong character during her own periods of vulnerability was both a blessing and a burden. “In some ways, Evelyn gave me strength. But other times, it felt like I was wearing a mask, hiding how I really felt.” She credits her fellow cast members and a few close crew members with helping her get through the hardest days. “Sometimes it just takes someone handing you a cup of tea and saying, ‘You’re doing great,’” she added.

Her struggles weren’t limited to emotional challenges. Lipman also faced physical strains, particularly during outdoor shoots in unpredictable weather or long scenes requiring multiple takes. “There were moments I was soaked to the bone, freezing, exhausted, and still had to deliver zingers with a smile,” she joked. But even through the humor, it was clear that the physical and mental toll was real. She didn’t ask for pity—rather, she wanted to shine a light on the human side of acting, especially for those working tirelessly behind the scenes to keep the show running.

Despite everything, Lipman remains fiercely proud of her work on Coronation Street. She considers the role of Evelyn to be one of the most challenging and rewarding of her career. “She’s not a typical grandmother. She’s fiery, brutally honest, and underneath it all, deeply compassionate. That complexity is rare in roles for women my age.” She hopes that by speaking out, she can inspire others—especially older actors—to continue pursuing their passions, even when the road is hard. “It’s never too late to take on something challenging,” she said. “If I can do it, anyone can.”

The response from fans to her behind-the-scenes revelations has been overwhelmingly supportive. Social media lit up with messages of admiration and gratitude. Many were shocked to learn just how much Lipman had endured, while others felt her story mirrored their own struggles in work or life. Several fellow actors came forward to praise her courage and honesty, calling her a trailblazer not just for older women in acting, but for anyone facing quiet battles while putting on a brave face for the world.

Looking forward, Lipman says she’s finding more balance. She’s learning to set boundaries, to speak up when overwhelmed, and to accept that even legends need rest. “I used to think I had to be indestructible,” she said, “but the truth is, strength also comes from admitting when you’re struggling.” Her words, laced with vulnerability and wisdom, reveal a side of the actress fans rarely get to see—but one that makes them love her even more.

As Coronation Street continues its ever-evolving storylines, Evelyn Plummer remains a favorite among viewers. And now, knowing what Lipman has gone through behind the scenes, each of her scenes carries even more emotional weight. It’s a reminder that behind every powerful performance is a real human being—facing their own storms while helping us escape ours.

In the end, Maureen Lipman’s story isn’t just about struggle—it’s about resilience, passion, and the quiet bravery it takes to keep going. And that, perhaps, is the most iconic thing of all.