Former Coronation Street star Ellie Leach has secured her first on-screen acting role since leaving the ITV soap, opening up about what she describes as the “most challenging” aspect of her latest television project.
The 24-year-old became a household name after playing Faye Windass for more than a decade before departing the cobbles in 2023. Following her exit, Ellie went on to win Strictly Come Dancing and later appeared in the touring stage production Cluedo 2, stepping in at the last minute for fellow Corrie alumna Helen Flanagan.
Now, Ellie is returning to screens in Channel 5’s hit drama The Good Ship Murder, where she will play the “sassy” Mimi McQuinn. The series is set to make its comeback on Tuesday evening.
In a new Instagram video, Ellie explained that Mimi is unlike any character she has played before. Introducing herself, she said she is portraying Mimi McQuinn, describing the character as “very sassy” and full of boss-like confidence. Ellie admitted that Mimi’s sharp and sometimes rude attitude towards others was probably the most challenging part of the role, but also the most enjoyable.
She added that beneath the bold exterior, Mimi is actually a kind and fairly normal person, explaining that her larger-than-life “star” persona is what truly shines through — and what Ellie loved most about playing her.
The comments section of Ellie’s post quickly filled with messages of support from fellow celebrities. Colson Smith, who played Faye Windass’s on-off love interest Craig Tinker on Coronation Street, cheered her on, while Strictly Come Dancing star Angela Scanlon reacted with a series of clapping-hand emojis.
The crime drama has aired two full series along with a Christmas special, and stars Catherine Tyldesley — who recently returned to Coronation Street as Rovers Return landlady Eva Price — alongside former X Factor winner Shayne Ward, best known to soap fans for his role as Aidan Connor.
Ellie was a fixture on Coronation Street from 2011 until her departure in 2023, having joined the soap as the adopted daughter of Anna Windass (Debbie Rush). Over the years, her character became central to numerous hard-hitting storylines, the Mirror reports.
One of the most significant plots saw Faye fall pregnant at just 12 years old, keeping it secret from her family until she went into labour above the corner shop. She named her baby after pop star Miley Cyrus before later sending her to live in Canada with the child’s father — a school friend — and his family.
Faye later entered a relationship with Seb Franklin, whose life was tragically cut short when he was murdered, and she was also diagnosed with premature menopause. Eventually, Faye’s daughter returned to the UK with her father Jackson, and the trio moved to Slough together.
Away from the soap, Ellie largely stepped back from television despite her Strictly Come Dancing victory. Earlier this year, she revealed she had been selling clothes on resale app Vinted for as little as £4.
The actress has previously spoken openly about her situation after bosses decided there was “no future for the character,” admitting she was left devastated by the decision. At one point, Ellie shared plans for an overseas trip despite being out of work.
Posting on social media, she joked: “Working lunch (we are booking a holiday),” alongside a photo of a friend, adding: “She’s a student and I’m unemployed.”
Ellie has previously spoken candidly about how “very hard” it was growing up in the public eye as a soap star. Reflecting in 2023, she admitted that while the experience could be daunting, it also brought incredible opportunities. She said she had met amazing people through the role and would never have had the career chances she’s enjoyed without Coronation Street, but acknowledged that navigating fame at such a young age was challenging.
She has also praised her time on Strictly Come Dancing, where she was partnered with professional dancer Vito Coppola. Although their close bond sparked romance speculation among viewers, both were quick to shut down any suggestion of a relationship.
Looking back, Ellie described the experience as deeply emotional and life-changing. She said the friendship she formed with Vito was incredibly special and something she will treasure forever, adding that she feels very fortunate and grateful for the journey.
Despite getting matching bee tattoos, Ellie and Vito insist their relationship is purely platonic. She explained that they clicked instantly when they first met, now see each other as family, and remain in constant contact, messaging one another every day.
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