Much-loved Coronation Street actress Sheila Bernette passes away aged 94

Sad news in today
Tamzin Meyer

Coronation Street legend Sheila Bernette has sadly died at the age of 94, with a statement confirming the much-loved actress’s passing.

The star appeared in the ITV soap during the 1970s as Sister Delaney and was also widely recognised for her work on the BBC variety series Good Old Days. Following the news, tributes have been pouring in from those who knew and worked with her across a long career in entertainment.

Coronation Street's Sheila Bernette and friend Peter
Sheila starred in Corrie in the 1970s (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)

Coronation Street star Sheila Bernette dies aged 94

The Royal Variety Charity announced Sheila’s death in a heartfelt statement, saying: “Sheila will be very much missed by many of those who worked with her and those from the wider theatrical family.”

Alongside her role in Coronation Street, Sheila was a familiar face on Good Old Days from 1968 until 1983. During that time, she appeared alongside stars including Sir David Jason, Morecombe and Wise, and Tommy Cooper.

She also played a significant role in the UK version of Candid Camera, further cementing her reputation as a versatile and dependable performer.

In later years, younger viewers came to know her through CBBC series Hotel Trubble, where she appeared as Mrs Poshington between 2008 and 2011.

Paying tribute, Sheila’s friend Peter Kosta shared memories of their first meeting and the support she showed him throughout his career. He said: “I was looking for digs, and Sheila said: ‘Well, if you’re clean, I have a spare room in my house.’

“She always supported me in everything that I wanted to do, and always came to see me in everything I did, whenever she could.

“I have extremely fond memories of her.”

Sister Delaney in Coronation Street
Sister Delaney tended to Elsie (Credit: ITV/ Shutterstock)

Sister Delaney in Coronation Street

Sheila played Sister Delaney in Coronation Street after first appearing in 1973. She featured in six episodes as a member of hospital staff caring for Elsie Howard following a serious accident.

After Elsie was knocked down by a taxi and admitted without identification, Sister Delaney memorably nicknamed her ‘Sleeping Beauty.’ While unconscious, Elsie repeatedly mentioned phrases such as ‘double glazing,’ ‘Pentonville’ and ‘Dennis Tanner,’ allowing Delaney to piece together her identity.

When Alan Howard arrived at the hospital, he initially feared Elsie had been unfaithful. However, Sister Delaney calmly explained that she had been in London buying him an anniversary present, clearing up the misunderstanding.

Sheila Bernette leaves behind a body of work fondly remembered by fans of Coronation Street and British television alike, with tributes reflecting the warmth and generosity she showed both on and off screen.

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