Coronation Street’s Katherine Kelly looks worlds away from Becky McDonald in glam new TV role

By Conor O’Brien

Yorkshire-born actress Katherine Kelly has played several varied roles throughout her two decade career.

Here is a look back at some of her biggest projects.

• Coronation Street (2006 to 2012): Katherine joined the ITV soap as Becky Granger, a guest character, in 2006. After impressing show bosses, she was brought back as a regular. Her storylines included marrying Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson) – as well as the introduction of half-sister Kylie (Paula Lane) and nephew Max (now played by Paddy Bever). Becky’s exit saw her leave with Danny Stratton (Jeremy Sheffield).
• Mr Selfridge (2013-2014, 2016): After leaving Corrie, Katherine then appeared in BBC period drama Mr Selfridge. Set from 1908 to 1928, it followed Harry Gordon Selfridge and his upscale department stores in London. Katherine played Lady Mae Loxley.
• Happy Valley (2016): Katherine appeared in series two of this hit BBC crime drama. Starring fellow Corrie legend Sarah Lancashire, she portrayed Jodie Shackleton. The part also reunited Katherine with former Corrie co-star Julie Hesmondhalgh, who played Hayley Cropper.
• The Night Manager (2016): Katherine had a supporting role in what was originally a one-off mini series. It is based on John le Carré’s 1993 novel of the same name. Her character is credited as ” Pamela, the Permanent Secretary”.
• Liar (2020): Katherine joined this ITV thriller for its second and final series. She portrayed the character DI Karen Renton, a Metropolitan Police officer.
• Ruby Speaking (2023): This six-part ITV comedy followed Ruby (Jayde Adams), a gregarious call centre worker. Katherine played “Vicki”, the manipulative company head.
• Mr Bates vs the Post Office (2024): A dramatisation of the British Post Office scandal, which aired on ITV in January 2024. Katherine starred as Angela van Den Bogerd. Again, former Corrie co-star Julie Hesmondhalgh also appeared in the show.