Coronation Street actress Amy Robbins has opened up about her new on-screen romance — and revealed she’s ready to take on the world of reality TV.
After a turbulent start on the cobbles, Amy’s character Christina Boyd has finally found love with undertaker George Shuttleworth (Tony Maudsley), in a storyline that’s both touching and hilariously awkward.
From Widow to Romance — Christina’s Second Chance
“It’s not quite Four Weddings and a Funeral,” Amy jokes, “but I’ve gone from burying my husband to snogging the undertaker!”
The 54-year-old actress admits she was close to walking away from acting before Corrie offered her a permanent role. “When Charlotte [Jordan, who played Daisy Midgeley] said she was leaving, I thought that was it for me,” Amy confessed. “I’d completely resigned myself to the idea that my character had run its course. I was even thinking about other things I could do.”
But fate had other plans. “I got the call from Coronation Street in the summer saying they wanted Christina back full-time,” she said. “Fate came along and said, ‘Do you want to do this?’”
Returning to Weatherfield, Christina quickly found herself working with Shuttleworth’s funeral parlour — and falling for its owner. “Christina has never really been loved,” Amy explained. “Now she’s met George and he makes her feel cared for. She can’t believe her luck.”
“Kissing George Was Like Snogging My Brother!”
While the romance looks natural on screen, Amy admits that kissing her co-star Tony Maudsley was a bit strange at first — because they’ve been close friends for 25 years.
“It was awkward at first because we’ve known each other forever,” she said. “It was like kissing my brother! But now it feels completely natural. There’s so much laughter on set — from the moment we arrive to when we go home.”
Their friendship dates back to 2001, when they starred together in ITV’s My Beautiful Son. Since then, their families have remained close. “Tony’s even been to my mum’s house, and my husband Bob and he are great mates. Bob doesn’t mind at all — he knows it’s just part of the job.”
Life Imitates Art
Amy, who’s been married to actor Bob Daws for 22 years, says she and Christina share some common traits. “She’s not perfect, and I’m not either,” she smiled. “That’s what I love about her — she’s flawed, funny, and full of life.”
She’s also grateful for Coronation Street’s commitment to writing strong storylines for women over 50. “It’s a lovely thing to be part of. The show gives women of my age a voice — and that’s really important.”
Off screen, Amy’s enjoying a new chapter too. “My children are grown up, and I’ve suddenly realised I can rediscover myself a bit. I’m saying yes to more things.”
“I’d Love to Do MasterChef or Strictly”
When asked about reality TV, Amy’s enthusiasm shines through. “Would I like to go on MasterChef? Yes, in a heartbeat,” she said. “I love cooking. Strictly would be amazing too, although I’ve never danced in my life! I’m a Celebrity? No thank you. Emily [Atack, her niece] did brilliantly — I don’t think anyone could top that.”
A dedicated Samaritans volunteer, Amy says her outlook on life has shifted. “If you’re lucky enough to have your family around you and a handful of good friends, you’re rich indeed.”
Living the Dream
For Amy, being on Coronation Street is the real prize. “I’ve always wanted to be in Corrie,” she said. “It was my dream as a little girl, and now I’m here. If I never get another acting job again, I won’t mind.”
Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 8pm on ITV, with episodes also available on ITVX.
