Dee Dee Bailey’s exit storyline unfolds as Channique reflects on her time in Weatherfield

Goodbye to Dee Dee—and a New Beginning for Channique

Coronation Street is saying goodbye to one of its brightest stars. Channique Sterling-Brown, who plays Dee Dee Bailey, has officially wrapped filming on the ITV soap. The actress confirmed her departure back in October, but as her final scenes air this month, emotions are running high—both on and off screen.

Channique joined Corrie in 2022 and quickly became a fan favorite, thanks to her razor-sharp wit and deeply human portrayal of the fierce but empathetic Dee Dee. In her short time on the cobbles, she earned major nominations including a National Television Award and Inside Soap Award.

Now, as she prepares for her next chapter, the actress is reflecting on what this journey has meant to her.

“I’ve Done What I Was Sent Here to Do”

Speaking to The Sun, Channique revealed she took her time deciding to leave. “It wasn’t a rash decision,” she shared. “I really just had the sense that it was time… I feel like I’ve been so privileged, and I’ve told some great stories.”

Guided by her faith, Channique says she found peace with the decision:
“It just felt like I had achieved what I was sent here to do. So it was time to be brave.”

That bravery is evident in her portrayal of Dee Dee—a strong, funny, and complex character who has tackled everything from legal showdowns to heartbreak. Her final storyline involves a life-changing decision about Joel Deering’s unborn child, adding another emotional layer to her departure.

Final Scenes Filled with Emotion and Nostalgia

Channique admitted her last day on set was emotional, calling it “nostalgic and lovely.” She reflected on every corridor, every set—realizing she was walking through them for the last time.

“I was in the building, on the street… the last time I’d be in The Rovers,” she said. “It’s just one of those things. The price of love is loss, right?”

Though bittersweet, she emphasized it wasn’t about wanting to leave—it was about honoring the love she had for the experience. “I’ve made amazing friends,” she added. “And I’ve just loved playing her.”

 

A Final Message to Her Corrie Family

Channique took to Instagram to share a farewell image of Dee Dee with Roy Cropper (David Neilson), writing:
“Last time sharing the screen with the best of humans to know and work with.”

Fans, castmates, and critics alike have praised her contribution to Coronation Street, and her absence will surely be felt in Weatherfield.