Since crashing onto the Coronation Street cobbles with bold fashion, louder opinions and a talent for ruffling feathers, Christina Boyd has been hard to ignore. Played by seasoned actress Amy Robbins, the character was once considered a chaotic whirlwind, but now, Amy reveals Christina is showing signs of genuine growth.

In an exclusive interview with Metro, the actress opened up about what’s behind Christina’s transformation from a ‘hot mess’ to a more grounded woman, and how landing her dream job in Corrie has been a career highlight after decades in the business.

When asked if her troublemaking character has reformed, Amy explained there’s more to Christina than meets the eye, and her past behaviour comes from years of emotional self-defence.

‘Her behaviour in the past has been to do with the fact that’s been badly treated by men and she’s built up lots of defences and a tough veneer,’ said the star. ‘She’s on her own in this world and she’s had to look after herself for so long, it’s toughened her and made her very wily. But she’s come back and she’s met undertaker George Shuttleworth and she can let her guard down a little bit, because for once she’s got someone to care for her.’

The introduction of George, played by Tony Maudsley, as a romantic interest has clearly marked a shift in Christina’s character arc, allowing her to open up, trust more, and show a vulnerable side viewers hadn’t seen before.

Still, Amy is quick to say that Christina’s fiery streak hasn’t gone anywhere, and that’s exactly what makes playing her such a joy.

‘She’s a hot mess and brilliant fun. In life there are times when you think: “oh, I’d like to say that, but obviously I won’t.” With her it’s a case of: ‘yes, I will just say that!’ So, it’s lovely.’

This wild energy made Christina’s earlier stints on the show unforgettable, to the point that even Amy herself didn’t think she’d be asked back. ‘This is my third or fourth return. My character Christina behaved so abominably the first time that I just couldn’t see anyway she’d come back. When they phoned me to ask me back again it was the happiest day. I went: “woo-hoo!” I love it so much.’

A 25-Year Reunion

Christina’s growing connection with George has become one of the show’s more unpredictable storylines, but for Amy, the chemistry comes naturally thanks to a real-life friendship with co-star Tony Maudsley.

‘We’ve been friends for 25 years. I first met him on a film called My Beautiful Son which we made with Julie Walters and we stayed in touch for all these years. It was lovely when they put our two characters together.’

Their long-standing friendship adds depth to the on-screen relationship, which has allowed viewers to see Christina not just as a wild card, but someone with potential for lasting love.

Though Amy is back to being the new kid on the block in Coronation Street, she’s far from new to soaps. ‘I’ve been in EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks. The only one I was never in was Brookside, which was strange considering I’m a Scouser,’ she laughed. ‘I loved Brookie. When I was at school, I wanted to be Claire Sweeney. I’d watch the omnibus and look at her and think: “one day, I’ll look like her.” But I never did! When you were a scouse girl growing up you wanted to be Claire Sweeney.’

And as it turns out, being part of the Corrie family is in her blood.

‘My brother Ted was here before me. He played Brendan Finch, the editor of a supernatural magazine and he had a romance with Mary Taylor. I now share a dressing room with Patti Clare who plays Mary. I said to her: “it’s funny to think that my brother was your love interest.” When I was a child, my parents were extras on Coronation Street.’

A True Showbiz Family

Acting runs deep in the Robbins household. ‘Paul McCartney is my cousin and my sister’s daughter is Emily Atack,’ she revealed. ‘As my dad used to say: “it’s a showbiz family, even the sewing machine is a singer.” I have three sisters and a brother and we’ve all been in showbusiness at one point. Even my sister Jane, who is a sculptor, was in the Eurovision Song Contest.’

The next generation is keeping the legacy going behind the scenes too: ‘One niece is a make-up artist, another is an agent and one nephew is a director. My husband is an actor, my step-son is a third assistant director and our younger daughter is showing signs of wanting to act too. It’s the family industry.’

Dream Come True

So what’s next for Amy Robbins? After a career that’s spanned stage, screen and Shakespeare, she’s already achieved the role she always dreamed of.

‘I’ve done Shakespeare, I’ve been in the West End, I’ve made films and been in dramas on telly, but what I always wanted was to be in Coronation Street and I’m here. So now, if I never get another job again, I can say I did it and I’ll be happy.’