A Coronation Street legend who appeared on the famous soap for more than 16 years made a surprise appearance at a sold-out gig in Manchester at the weekend.

Sheffield singer Self Esteem, who is known for songs like You Forever, I Do This All The Time and Prioritise Pleasure, is currently making her way through an epic three-night run of shows at Manchester Academy, which began on Saturday (September 27).

The show, which has been described as a masterclass in performance, continued its sold-out shows on Sunday evening (September 28), and was held to coincide with the critically-acclaimed release of the performers’ third album A Complicated Woman earlier this year.

Half-way through Sunday’s 17-song show, the singer – also known as Rebecca Lucy Taylor – began performing If Not Now, It’s Soon, which is taken from the latest record. The track features a sample of two lines spoken by actress Julie Hesmondhalgh, who appeared in Manchester to recite the inclusion live.

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Appearing on-stage in a red top, Julie, who is known for her former role as Hayley Cropper on the cobbles, was met with huge cheers from the 5,000-strong crowd as she appeared in front of the microphone.

Following her two lines, she stayed on stage to dance alongside Rebecca and her performers, before giving a huge hug to the singer. After the moment, Rebecca told the crowd: “We’re in the presence of greatness. My literal, literal favourite person in the world.”

Rebecca has previously spoken about her love for Julie. Ahead of the release of the track they both appear on earlier this year, she explained on social media: “I always wanted to sample someone inspirational personally, professionally and politically for this song.

“Please welcome to the stage Miss Julie Hesmondhalgh. I have been lucky enough to become friends with this endlessly encouraging and powerful woman. Everyone in the videos and on the record gives me hope. Find the people who give you hope and hold them close!”

After Rebecca had shared a behind-the-scenes video on Instagram a few months ago, Julie had lovingly replied: “Waaaah! Oh sweetheart! LIFE MADE, DREAM REALISED, HEART FULL, HOPE RESTORED.”

Alongside her role on Coronation Street from 1998 to 2014, Julie has also appeared on screen in a number of productions including Cucumber, Broadchurch and Mr Bates vs The Post Office.

As well as being a member of The Gap writing collective, which is based in Manchester, Julie is also a supporter of the Arts Emergency organisation and a mentor with the National Youth Theatre.

Earlier this year, Julie was granted honorary lifetime membership to the Equity union following her campaign work to save Oldham Coliseum from being demolished. She was hailed as a ‘figurehead’ in saving the beloved theatre.

The theatre, which is over 135 years old, was on the brink of financial collapse in 2023 after vital funding from Arts Council England was withdrawn, and after Oldham Council declared the building to be ‘no longer fit for purpose’. Following local support and campaigning, it was announced the theatre would receive £10m to help restore the building.