Coronation Street paid an emotional tribute to beloved director Kay Patrick, who worked on the show for over 20 years, with a touching on-screen message at the end of Tuesday’s episode
Coronation Street star Kay Patrick has died(Image: Wiki)
Coronation Street has paid tribute after the death of director Kay Patrick. At the conclusion of Tuesday’s episode (June 30), the programme displayed a photograph of the star accompanied by the words, “In memory of Kay Patrick 1941-2026.”
Her death was announced publicly on June 24, with her funeral service taking place on Monday. Mourners were told to “leave the formal back clothes at home,” as “Kay would have wanted everyone to dress for comfort!” No cause of death has been disclosed.
She helmed more than 250 episodes of the long-running ITV soap after joining in 1994, remaining for 21 years. In an interview, she reflected: “I was lucky to be there at such extraordinary times.”
In 2014, she received widespread praise for her direction of the farewell episode featuring beloved character Hayley Cropper, portrayed by Julie Hesmondhalgh, who departed the show after 16 years, reports the Express.
In the storyline, her character decided to end her own life rather than suffer the agonising pain of pancreatic cancer, leaving husband Roy Cropper (David Neilson) heartbroken.
Reflecting on Kay’s contribution to the poignant episode, Julie remarked: “The almost holy atmosphere she created in the studio during those last scenes … She instinctively knew that it was a one-take moment, and so just blocked it and shot it with such understated love and sensitivity. It’s entirely down to Kay that those scenes were as raw and memorable as they were.”
Over 10 million viewers watched the episodes, which received widespread acclaim for its sensitive approach to the divisive subject matter.
Beyond Corrie, Kay’s impressive portfolio spanned virtually every major soap and continuing drama, including Emmerdale, Brookside, Holby City, and EastEnders.
Her career started as an actress, appearing in Doctor Who during the 1960s alongside the First Doctor William Hartnell. She also featured in Z-Cars.
The actress subsequently discovered her passion for collaborating more closely with writers and transitioned into directing. She honed her skills on the BBC Radio 2 soap Waggoners’ Walk from 1971.
Tributes poured in for the star following the devastating news. Former Coronation Street actress Lisa George, who portrayed Beth Trinker in the soap, wrote: “Awwww I loved Kay- worked with her quite a bit and just felt so safe in her hands. I thought she was amazing xxx. Another friend added: “.
Another friend commented: “So saddened to hear about Kay’s passing. It was an honour to know her. Such a kind, lovely lady and a cat lover to boot! Kay was so loved and respected by all who worked on Coronation Street. Rest in peace, Kay.”
Meanwhile, a third simply chimed in: “I’m so sorry to hear about Kay. It was a pleasure to know her. Xx.” Speaking about her time at the show, having joined in 1994, Kay previously said: “I was lucky to be there at such extraordinary times.”
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