Coronation Street viewers are devastated following a worrying Michelle Connor development on the ITV programme.

Michelle (Kym Marsh) first appeared on the famous street in 2006 and remained a mainstay of the enduring series for 13 years. Moreover, it’s safe to say Michelle found herself embroiled in numerous major plotlines throughout her time on screen.

From her brothers’ tragic deaths to a distressing baby swap storyline, Michelle’s period in Weatherfield was packed with turmoil. She also shared a beloved bond with sister-in-law Carla Connor (Alison King) – who remains on the programme – that proved popular with viewers.

However, in 2019, Kym announced her departure from the soap after 13 years, leaving supporters devastated. Her concluding scenes were broadcast in December of that year.

Following her departure, Michelle has been referenced on multiple occasions. Her son Ryan (Ryan Prescott) suffered a terrible acid attack in 2023 and Ryan departed the cobbles to see Michelle in Ireland

This week, Carla took time away from the cobbles to visit Michelle as well. Based on what Carla’s fiancé Lisa Swain (Vicky Myers) revealed, Carla was travelling there with Ryan due to “family stuff”.

Nevertheless, supporters have read this as an indication that Michelle might be facing difficulties. On a Coronation Street Facebook fan group, watchers have speculated about a surprising cancer storyline.

“Watch Carla come back and reveal Michelle is unwell or something,” suggested one viewer. Another commented: “Cancer probably!” A third contributed: “I did think maybe something’s happened with her?” Despite departing the soap more than five years ago, Kym has teased a potential comeback on numerous occasions.

Earlier this year, she revealed to Liverpool Echo: “Never say never. I’d like to think I would go back if it suited us both at the time.”

Speaking to The Mirror in August, Kym commented: “It was left open, very much so and if the chance and opportunity was to arrive then I could always return if that was what was wanted.

“So yeah, there is always that option for her to go back, unless they kill her off! But there is that opportunity and I mean, I just love that show. “I will always love Coronation Street, it’s such a major part of my life. “”.