There are always rumours about actors returning to their soap roles.
But this one is an answer direct to our prayers – Alison King, who played one of Corrie’s all-time favourites Carla Connor, is making a comeback to the cobbles.
Earlier this year it was rumoured that Coronation Street boss Kate Oates was keen to entice the 44-year-old actress back.
And, after a little apparent begging, she’s succeeded.
Alison is set to return to the soap at the end of the year – if reports are to be believed.
The Sun on Sunday quotes a show source as revealing: “Carla is a hugely popular character with viewers, and Kate always felt it was a shame Ali left. So when the opportunity to talk to her came up, she was delighted.
“For a few months now they have been in secret talks and the word among the cast is that Ali has agreed.”
Carla was last seen in Weatherfield last year, as she kissed goodbye to her dad Johnny and headed for pastures new in Devon.
Her relationship with Nick had gone belly up after Tracy exposed her one-night stand with Robert, and she’d faced the emotional wrangle of giving up killer brother Rob.
Alison later admitted she had decided to leave her high-profile role because she was exhausted.
The mum-of-one said: “It’s incredibly hard. A lot of Carla’s stories are high-octane, emotional stuff.
“Learning it takes up my weekends and it can be exhausting to do.”
It’s not yet known the circumstances under which Carla will return, however there is already one potential plot opening.
Her father is currently facing a health scare; a diagnosis of something quite serious would be enough reason to being her back home.
Whatever the reason, we can’t wait to see the raven-haired beauty strut back onto the cobbles and sink a few too many Merlots.