Coronation Street has cemented one of its most enduring legacies, as Tina O’Brien has officially signed a new contract that will keep her on the famous cobbles

for yet another year—marking an extraordinary 27th year portraying the much-loved Sarah Platt. In an era where soap departures are frequent and fan favourites

often come and go, Tina’s recommitment to the ITV stalwart is being hailed as both a reassuring vote of confidence and a powerful statement of continuity for the long-running drama.

Coronation Street star Tina O’Brien has extended her contract on the show

Tina has played Sarah Platt since 1999

After a rough 2025, the actress thought it would be best to stay on the cobbles

At 42, Tina has become synonymous with Coronation Street itself. Since first stepping onto the Weatherfield set in 1999 as a teenage Sarah-Louise Platt, she has grown alongside her character, navigating some of the soap’s most harrowing, controversial, and emotionally resonant storylines. From Sarah’s turbulent teenage years and early motherhood to her complex romantic entanglements and family upheavals, Tina’s performance has anchored the Platt family through decades of change.

The timing of her new contract makes the news all the more significant. Behind the scenes, 2025 proved to be one of the most challenging years of Tina’s personal life, prompting Corrie bosses to move swiftly to reassure her about her future on the show. According to insiders, the deal was finalised quietly just before the Christmas break, ensuring stability at a time when the actress needed it most.

Earlier in the year, Tina confirmed her split from husband Adam Crofts after seven years of marriage. The couple share a son, Beau, 10, while Tina is also mum to daughter Scarlett, 16, from her previous relationship with former Corrie co-star Ryan Thomas. Friends say the separation was handled privately and with dignity, but it nevertheless marked a major emotional shift for the actress.

Tragedy struck again in November when Tina revealed the devastating loss of her father, Steven. Sharing the news with fans in a heartfelt Instagram post, she spoke candidly about her grief, writing: “My dad died recently. I haven’t quite known how to put it into words. My heart is very heavy but I’m grateful he is no longer suffering. Thank you to everyone who’s held me steady through this difficult time.” The message was met with an outpouring of love and support from fans and colleagues alike, many of whom praised her strength and openness.

A Coronation Street source revealed that the production team were acutely aware of the weight Tina was carrying and were determined to offer reassurance where they could. “Tina had a very difficult 2025, so bosses wanted to make it clear there was absolutely nothing to worry about when it came to her job,” the insider explained. “She put pen to paper just before Christmas. With so many changes in her personal life, the last thing they wanted was for her to feel uncertain about her place on the show.”

Sarah is the daughter of iconic Corrie characters Martin and Gail Platt

Tina and her daughter Scarlett whom she shares with Ryan Thomas

The source added that Tina remains “very much adored on set” and teased that Sarah Platt is set for “some big things” in the year ahead—an enticing promise for long-time viewers who have followed the character’s journey for more than two decades. While ITV declined to comment officially, the renewal speaks volumes about Tina’s value to the soap and the creative plans still in store for her character.

Adding to an already turbulent period, Tina also ended a short-lived romance with millionaire businessman Adam Fable just weeks after announcing her father’s passing. The pair had gone public with their relationship over the summer and made their first high-profile appearance together at co-star Jack P. Shepherd’s wedding in July. However, by November, the relationship had run its course.

Sources close to the actress said Tina made the decision after realising the relationship “wasn’t going anywhere” and didn’t have long-term potential. The split reportedly came as a shock to Adam, 38, who believed they had a future together. In a quiet but decisive move, Tina removed all traces of the relationship from her social media, including photographs from a romantic getaway to Greece earlier in the autumn.

Despite the emotional toll of the year, Tina has clearly been determined to step into 2026 with renewed focus and optimism. Choosing to put the hardships of 2025 behind her, she treated herself to a luxurious New Year’s escape abroad. Posting candid snapshots to Instagram, she shared glimpses of her sun-soaked holiday, including a celebratory glass of bubbles at the airport and relaxed poolside moments in a chic yellow bikini—images that radiated calm, confidence, and resilience.

For Coronation Street fans, Tina O’Brien’s contract renewal is more than just casting news; it is a reminder of the show’s emotional backbone. Sarah Platt has been at the centre of some of the soap’s most defining moments, and Tina’s ability to bring authenticity and vulnerability to the role has ensured the character remains relevant across generations. Her continued presence promises not only compelling storytelling but also a sense of familiarity and heart in a constantly evolving soap landscape.

As Coronation Street looks ahead to its next chapter, securing Tina O’Brien for a 27th year feels like a powerful affirmation of the show’s commitment to its roots. After a year marked by loss, change, and personal upheaval, Tina’s decision to stay on the cobbles signals resilience, loyalty, and a readiness to embrace what comes next—both on screen and off. For viewers, it means one thing above all: Sarah Platt’s story is far from over.