Coronation Street fans are just learning Helen Worth's real name - and it’s totally different

Coronation Street fans were left stunned after learning the real name of soap legend Helen Worth.

The television favourite, who first graced the cobbles in 1974 as Gail Platt, quickly became one of the show's most cherished and iconic characters. Moreover, Gail, known for her unfortunate love life, has been at the heart of some of the soap's most significant plots.

Her tumultuous romantic history includes five husbands, four of whom have passed away. Notably, her involvement with Richard Hillman, who attempted to murder her and her entire family in 2003, is unforgettable.

In recognition of her portrayal of Gail, Helen was awarded the Outstanding Achievement Award at the Inside Soap Awards in 2006, and again at the British Soap Awards 2014, marking her 40th year on the programme.

However, earlier this year, it was announced that Helen would be leaving the soap after a remarkable 50-year stint. Her exit was confirmed in June, with the initial departure storyline set to feature Gail's ex-husband Martin Platt, played by Sean Wilson, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Despite this, it was reported that Sean had departed the show - even though he had already filmed several weeks' worth of scenes. Consequently, the soap brought back former star John Thomson, who plays Jesse Chadwick, to be part of Gail's farewell.

Coronation Street fans were stunned to discover that Helen Worth, who plays Gail Platt, was born with a different name - Cathryn Helen Wigglesworth. The revelation sparked a flurry of comments on a Corrie Facebook fan page, with one fan exclaiming: "Suddenly just learned that Helen Worth's real name IS Cathryn Helen Wigglesworth!?"

Others expressed similar surprise, with one saying: "Whaaat! That is brand new information to me!" And another admitted: "I genuinely thought that Helen was her real name."

Meanwhile, Helen has spoken about her decision to leave the show, saying: "This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world.

"I made the decision at the start of the year and spoke to the producers who were very kind and understanding. I have been truly blessed to have been given the most incredible scripts week in week out, and to have worked with fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew."