Catherine Tyldesley, the beloved actress known for her role as Eva Price on the long-running ITV soap opera Coronation Street, continues to leave the door open for a possible return to the show that catapulted her to fame. After announcing her departure from Coronation Street in December 2017, Tyldesley’s final scenes as the spirited and often dramatic character aired in August 2018, marking the end of a significant chapter in her life and career. However, during a recent conversation with Prima magazine, she reflected on her time in the soap with great fondness and hinted that she hasn’t ruled out the possibility of returning to the world of Weatherfield.
Evoking nostalgia, Catherine Tyldesley shared her sentiments about her tenure on Coronation Street, stating that the experience feels like it happened “forever ago” but remains a treasured part of her journey as an actress. Throughout her seven years on the show, she became fondly recognized as Eva Price, a character who navigated love, heartbreak, and drama, captivating audiences along the way. Tyldesley revealed that she has been approached to reprise her role on a couple of occasions since her exit, but her busy schedule with various projects ultimately led to her declining those offers.
“I always look back with such great fondness. They’ve asked me to go back a couple of times over the years, and it just so happened that I was busy with other projects,” she recounted. While reflecting on her departure and the changing tides of her career, she expressed a willingness to return if the right opportunity arose. “But if they approached me with an amazing storyline and the time was right, of course, I’d go back. So it’s always a case of never say never.” This sentiment resonates with many actors who recognize the potential for new storylines and character developments, leaving fans hopeful about the possibility of her character making a grand return to the small screen.
In addition to her reflections on Coronation Street, Tyldesley has recently reunited with her former co-star, Shayne Ward, in the crime drama series The Good Ship Murder, which airs on Channel 5. The second series of the show is set to begin this month, following a festive Christmas special that delighted viewers. Shayne Ward, who became a household name after winning the second season of The X Factor, also graced the screens of Coronation Street, portraying the character Aidan Connor. In The Good Ship Murder, Tyldesley takes on the role of First Officer Kate Woods, a cabaret singer-turned-detective. The on-screen chemistry between Tyldesley and Ward is apparent, and Tyldesley is thrilled about their collaboration.
Expressing her excitement about working alongside Ward again, she remarked, “We’re like the naughty kids at school who shouldn’t be sat together! It makes life so much easier because we’ve got that relationship, which gives us good chemistry.” Their existing friendship and shared experiences helped to create an easy rapport on set, allowing them to command their roles with a natural authenticity that resonates with audiences. Tyldesley added that their mutual experiences as parents also provided emotional support during filming. “He kept me sane during season one because I’d just had a baby, and his other half had also just had a baby, and so we kind of propped each other up emotionally while we were both missing the kids,” she shared. Their camaraderie went beyond professional lines, fostering a supportive environment during the challenges of balancing parenthood with the demanding nature of acting.
Catherine Tyldesley is not only a talented actress but also a dedicated mother. She shares two children—her son, Alfie, and daughter, Iris—with her husband, Tom Pitfield. As a mother, she candidly shared her experiences related to body image and mental health. Reflecting on her journey post-pregnancy, she described the natural fluctuations many women experience and acknowledged the struggles she faced after having her second child. “I found it very difficult after my second child. I hate the words ‘spring back’ because you’ve achieved something so amazing,” she explained. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply with many women who navigate the complexities of motherhood while contending with societal pressures regarding body image.
Being frank about her feelings, Tyldesley admitted, “I’ll be honest: I didn’t feel like myself. I felt unfit, I felt weak, I felt vulnerable.” Her struggles included issues such as hyperemesis—a condition characterized by severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy—alongside chronic sickness and sleep deprivation. As she described her experiences, she shed light on the difficulties many new mothers face. The mental toll of motherhood can weigh heavily, especially after enduring such physically demanding conditions. “It got to the point where the doctor was like, ‘We’re going to have to do something because your quality of life is really bad at the moment.’ I was just losing my mind, mental health-wise, trying to manage on two or three hours of sleep each night.” Tyldesley’s honesty sheds light on the often overlooked challenges of new motherhood, highlighting the importance of prioritizing mental health and self-care.
Catherine Tyldesley’s versatility as an actress is notable; not only has she left a mark on Coronation Street, but she also competed in the high-profile dance competition Strictly Come Dancing in 2019, showcasing her dynamic talents beyond acting. She has also delighted audiences in the BBC sitcom Scarborough, further expanding her repertoire. This diverse portfolio of work reflects her adaptability and commitment to growth in the competitive entertainment industry.
Her recent reunion with Shayne Ward is just one part of Tyldesley’s evolving career trajectory, as she embraces new challenges and opportunities. The February 2025 issue of Prima magazine features her reflections and insights about her career, motherhood, and personal struggles. As the magazine hits the shelves, it offers readers a glimpse into the life of an actress who has captured the hearts of many while navigating the complexities of motherhood and work.
In summary, Catherine Tyldesley’s continued success and openness about her experiences make her both relatable and inspiring. With her fond memories of Coronation Street and her willingness to consider a comeback, fans of the iconic soap remain hopeful for a potential return. Additionally, her current work on The Good Ship Murder with Shayne Ward showcases her versatility as an actress while reconnecting with familiar faces. Her journey serves as a reminder that the path to success is often intertwined with personal growth, resilience, and the importance of nurturing relationships, both on and off the screen. As she moves forward, Catherine Tyldesley continues to embody the spirit of a dedicated artist, embracing challenges while remaining grounded in her role as a mother and a creative professional.