Anne Kirkbride was a British actress best known for her role as Deirdre Barlow on the long-running television soap opera Coronation Street. She joined the show in 1972 and became a beloved character, known for her distinctive glasses and strong personality. Her portrayal earned her a significant fan base and several awards throughout her career. Kirkbride's work on Coronation Street spanned over four decades, making her one of the show's most recognizable faces. She left the series in 2014 due to health issues and sadly passed away in January 2015, leaving behind a legacy in British television.