“Barbara Knox has portrayed Rita Tanner on Coronation Street for many decades.”
Rita Tanner is a true soap icon on Coronation Street, but just how old is the character?
The Weatherfield favourite, played by Barbara Knox, first appeared on the cobbles back in 1964. Since then, Rita has become one of the show’s most beloved characters.
It’s safe to say that The Kabin owner has seen her fair share of dramatic storylines over the years. From a brain tumour diagnosis to surviving the epic tram crash stunt, her time in Weatherfield has been full of drama.
Her love life has also kept viewers talking. Over the years, Rita has been married three times – to Len Fairclough (Peter Adamson), Ted Sullivan (William Russell), and Dennis Tanner (Phillip Lowrie).
What’s more, Rita holds the record for receiving more marriage proposals than any other character on the soap – an incredible 15 from 12 different men. Recently, both viewers and Rita herself were left emotional when her adopted daughter Jenny Bradley (Sally Ann Matthews) departed Weatherfield, 40 years after making her debut.
Meanwhile, some fans have been wondering about Rita’s age. The character was born on 25 February 1932, meaning she is set to turn 94 in just a few days. Actress Barbara Knox, however, was born on 30 September 1933 and will celebrate her 93rd birthday later this year.
Marking her 92nd birthday last year, one fan praised her on a Coronation Street Facebook page, writing: “Still looking brilliant.” Another commented: “Looking incredible for her age.” Sharing similar sentiments, a third added: “Still gorgeous, still amazing in Corrie.”
Meanwhile, soap legends William Roache and Barbara Knox spoke about their future on the show after receiving the Outstanding Contribution to Television Award at the Variety Awards last year.
After picking up the award, the duo made it clear they have no plans to step away from the soap anytime soon, despite sharing a combined 118 years on the show. When asked whether retirement was on the horizon, both admitted it wasn’t something they were considering.
They explained that continuing to work is what keeps them feeling youthful. When asked what helps them stay young at heart, Barbara replied: “Honestly, I think having the chance to keep working is the greatest thing.
“I don’t want to retire, and I know Bill doesn’t either, because keeping your brain active gets you up in the morning. We’re lucky to still be able to do that.”
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