This is a long edit of Bet Lynch's 2002 return to Coronation Street.
In 2002, Julie Goodyear made a well publicised return to the Street after an absence of 7 years. In 2001, the Street had been criticised in the press for being too 'miserable' with a whole range of issue led plots which didn't prove popular with viewers (although they were very well written and acted). It was felt that the show needed an injection of humour and familiarity and the producers persuaded Julie to return.
Bet returned to attend Betty's retirement party from the Rovers and she soon caught up with Ken, Deirdre Emily, Jack, Vera, Mike and Audrey. She also sparred with Rita as they parted on very bad terms, that was one friendship that didn't heal properly. Audrey let Bet stay at her house, which she regretted as Bet lazed around most of the day! It later transpired that Bet had been swindled out of money from a former lover, Phil Bennett, and she was in the area to appear in court to testify against him. Bet was convinced she'd lose the case. Mike and Audrey went to court to support Bet but she lost the case and left Weatherfield once again.
It is very well documented but Julie found the pressures of the schedule gruelling, and after two weeks, she pulled out of filming on the advice of her doctor. The conclusion of the story with the court case was off-screen. Of course, the press had a field day which was, in my view, unjustified as she was thrown in at the deep end when the show should've eased her back in gently. It was a shame as there were some very good scenes with Rita, Betty (sadly too brief), Audrey and Jack.
But on watching her return, I wonder if she fitted in as the show had changed so much in the intervening years. Maybe if she had been gradually eased in things would've turned out different? Who knows? Julie later said she regretted returning. I don't know about that as we did get some lovely scenes, but I still think of her 1995 departure as the ultimate one.
Julie made another guest appearance in 2003 for a week's worth of episodes in Blackpool. This return was much better as it had a beginning, middle and end (and was written better too). This was the last time we saw Bet in the show. I don't think we'll see her again, but it would be my dream to have a Bet return for one final time.
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