So farewell Jean Alexander, the wonderful actress who embodied Hilda Ogden on Coronation Street for 23 years. I have fond memories of watching the show as a child and teenager and she was one of the main reasons I tuned in, a figure I loved to hate for her interfering, busybody ways and shrill window-breaking voice. She also brought a lot more to the character such as pathos and vulnerability, and there was great comic timing.
She was eminently believable in the role, and the brilliant and emotional scene where she silently unwraps Stan’s possessions after his death has stayed with me for years.
I remember seeing her being interviewed in the‘80s and was struck by the stark contrast between the woman and the character she played. In real life she was elegant, sophisticated and very well spoken. Loved by millions she’ll no doubt be given a grand and fitting send off. So as Hilda used to say: “Ta-ra chuck”.
