Coronation Street issues first warning to controversial Debbie dementia story

Ash Percival

Published January 22, 2025 8:55pm

Debbie Webster looking fierce in Coronation Street — Debbie will be diagnosed with dementia later this year (Picture: ITV)

Coronation Street has aired what appears to be its first signal to Debbie Webster’s (Sue Devaney) forthcoming dementia storyline.

Back in November, Metro broke the news the character is being written out of the ITV soap after she is diagnosed with the condition in the coming months.

A source told us the plot would be a ‘devastating’ watch for fans, but show bosses kept quiet insisting they do not ‘comment on future storyline speculation’.

However, Wednesday’s episode hinted at Debbie’s forthcoming diagnosis with a subtle clue.

Fans saw a row break out between Debbie and partner Ronnie Bailey (Vinta Morgan) in the Bistro over some theatre tickets she’d booked for later that evening.

This was a surprise to Ronnie, who insisted he was out with the boys later that night, and the plans had long been in the diary.

As Debbie maintained she’d told him she’d booked the tickets for today’s date, Ronnie was adamant she’d told him it was on the 10th, prompting her to angrily storm out.

Debbie Webster in Coronation Street — There are heartbreaking scenes ahead for the much-loved character (Picture: ITV)

While fans will see Debbie’s memory begin to worsen, Metro understands that Debbie’s storyline has a long way to play out, with actress Sue Devaney staying on our screens beyond 2025.

She first appeared as then-15-year-old Debbie 40 years ago and stayed for a year before making an unexpected comeback in 2019.

Fans were in uproar at the news she is being written out of the ITV soap, with some even setting up an official petition to save the beloved character.

Debbie, Kevin and Bill Webster in a 1984 episode of Coronation Street — Debbie made her first appearance on the show in 1984 (Picture: ITV)

A source previously told us of the plot: ‘It’s one of many major storylines new boss Kate Brooks has in the bag, and there will not be a dry eye in the house.

‘There is no doubt in the Corrie family that she will give the performance of a lifetime and make Debbie’s exit one to remember for years.’