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{{inuniverse|date=March 2020}}
{{short description|Fictional character from the British soap opera Coronation Street}}
{{short description|Fictional character from the British soap opera Coronation Street}}
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{{in-universe|date=March 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2020}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=February 2020}}
{{Use British English|date=May 2019}}
{{Use British English|date=May 2019}}
{{Infobox soap character
{{Infobox soap character
| name = Rosie Webster
| name = Rosie Webster
| portrayer = {{nowrap|Emma Collinge (1990–1999)<br />[[Helen Flanagan]] (2000–2018)}}
| portrayer = {{nowrap|Emma Collinge (1990–1999)<br>[[Helen Flanagan]] (2000–2018)}}
| introducer = [[List of Coronation Street producers|Mervyn Watson]] (1990) <br/> [[Kate Oates]] (2017)
| introducer = [[List of Coronation Street producers|Mervyn Watson]] (1990)<br>[[Kate Oates]] (2017)
| image1 = Rosie_Webster.jpg
| image1 = Rosie_Webster.jpg
| imagesize1 = 250px
| imagesize1 = 200
| caption1 =
| caption1 = Helen Flanagan as Rosie Webster (2017)
| image2 = Rosie1Corrie.jpg
| image2 = Rosie1Corrie.jpg
| imagesize2 = 200px
| imagesize2 = 200
| caption2 = Emma Collinge as Rosie Webster (1999)
| caption2 = Emma Collinge as Rosie Webster (1999)
| series = [[Coronation Street]]
| series = [[Coronation Street]]
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| last = Episode 9477<br>8 June 2018
| last = Episode 9477<br>8 June 2018
| years = 1990–2012, 2017–2018
| years = 1990–2012, 2017–2018
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| classification = [[List of former Coronation Street characters#Last appeared in 2018|Former; regular]]
| home = [[Japan]]
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| spinoffs=''[[Coronation Street|Coronation Street: Knights Tale]]'' (2010)<br>''[[Coronation Street|Just Rosie]]'' (2011)
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| classification = [[List of former Coronation Street characters#W|Former; regular]]
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| spinoffs=''[[Coronation Street|Coronation Street:<br>Knights Tale]]'' (2010)<br/>''[[Coronation Street|Just Rosie]]'' (2011)
| born = 24 December 1990<ref>{{cite book|last=Little|first=Daran|author-link=Daran Little|title=40 years of Coronation Street|year=2000|publisher=Granada Media Group|isbn=978-0-233-99806-0|page=275}}</ref>
| father = [[Kevin Webster]]
| father = [[Kevin Webster]]
| mother = [[Sally Metcalfe]]
| mother = [[Sally Webster]]
| stepmother = [[Alison Webster (Coronation Street)|Alison Webster]] <br>(2000)
| stepmother = [[Alison Webster (Coronation Street)|Alison Webster]] <br/> [[Abi Webster]]
| stepfather = [[Tim Metcalfe (Coronation Street)|Tim Metcalfe]] <!--Do not add a year next to Tim as Rosie was not on screen from the start of the marriage.-->
| stepfather = [[Tim Metcalfe (Coronation Street)|Tim Metcalfe]] <!--Do not add a year next to Tim as Rosie was not on screen from the start of the marriage.-->
| halfbrothers = [[Jake Webster (Coronation Street)|Jake Webster]]<br />[[Jack Webster (Coronation Street)|Jack Webster]]
| halfbrothers = [[Jake Webster (Coronation Street)|Jake Webster]]<br>[[Jack Webster (Coronation Street)|Jack Webster]]
| sisters = [[Sophie Webster]]
| sisters = [[Sophie Webster]]
| stepsister = [[Faye Windass]]
| grandfathers = [[Bill Webster]]<br>[[Eddie Seddon]]
| grandfathers = [[Bill Webster]]<br>[[Eddie Seddon]]
| grandmothers = Alison Webster<br>[[Elsie Seddon]]
| grandmothers = Alison Webster<br>[[Elsie Seddon]]
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* Game Show TV Presenter
* Game Show TV Presenter
}}
}}
| books = ''[[Coronation Street|Coronation Street:<br/>The Complete Saga]]''
| books = ''Coronation Street: The Complete Saga''
}}
}}
'''Rosie Webster''' is a [[Character (arts)|fictional character]] from the [[Television in the United Kingdom|British]] [[ITV (TV channel)|ITV]] [[soap opera]], ''[[Coronation Street]]''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 24 December 1990. She was played by Emma Collinge from 1990 until 27 December 1999. [[Helen Flanagan]] took over the role on 23 January 2000.<ref name="itv"/> Flanagan took a three-month break in the summer of 2011<ref name=3monthbreak>{{cite web|last=Kilkelly|first=Daniel|title=Flanagan to take 3-month Corrie break|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s3/coronation-street/news/a306246/flanagan-to-take-3-month-corrie-break.html|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hachette Filipacchi UK]]|access-date=28 February 2011|date=28 February 2011}}</ref> and returned on 26 September 2011. The character departed the show on 10 February 2012, leaving to make a reality television show,<ref name="InOut">{{cite journal|date=12–18 November 2011|title=Who's in? Who's out?|journal=[[Inside Soap]]|issue=45|page=32}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Kilkelly|first=Daniel|title='Coronation Street' star Helen Flanagan confirms soap exit|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s3/coronation-street/news/a345779/coronation-street-star-helen-flanagan-confirms-soap-exit.html|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines UK]]|access-date=15 October 2011|date=15 October 2011}}</ref> but returned on 6 February 2017 for a short stint after agreeing to return in October 2016.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.itv.com/news/granada/2016-10-05/helen-flanagan-returns-to-coronation-street-as-rosie-webster/|title=Helen Flanagan returns to Coronation Street as Rosie Webster|work=ITV News|date=5 October 2016|access-date=5 October 2016}}</ref> On 9 February 2017, it was announced that Flanagan had extended her contract, and Rosie would remain indefinitely.<ref name="digitalspy1">[http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a820917/coronation-streets-rosie-webster-helen-flanagan-new-contract/ Coronation Street's Rosie Webster is going nowhere as Helen Flanagan signs a new contract<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Flanagan left for maternity leave on 8 June 2018. Flanagan has since said that she is unsure when she will return.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/a29749980/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-unsure-rosie-webster-return/|title=Coronation Street's Helen Flanagan unsure when she'll return as Rosie Webster|work=[[Digital Spy]]|first=Susannah|last=Alexander|date=10 November 2019}}</ref>
'''Rosie Webster''' is a fictional character from the [[ITV (TV channel)|ITV]] soap opera ''[[Coronation Street]]''. The character has been portrayed by two actresses: Emma Collinge from 1990 to 1999, and [[Helen Flanagan]] from 2000 to 2012, and from 2017 to 2018.<ref name="collinge"/><ref name="digitalspy1">[http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a820917/coronation-streets-rosie-webster-helen-flanagan-new-contract/ Coronation Street's Rosie Webster is going nowhere as Helen Flanagan signs a new contract<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> Flanagan has since said that she is unsure if she will return to the role.<ref name="leave"/>


Rosie is the first born daughter to [[Kevin Webster]] ([[Michael Le Vell]]) and [[Sally Webster]] ([[Sally Dynevor]]), older sister to [[Sophie Webster]] (Ashleigh Middleton, Emma Woodward, [[Brooke Vincent]]), and older half-sister to [[Jack Webster (Coronation Street)|Jack Webster]] and [[deceased]] [[Jake Webster (Coronation Street)|Jake Webster]]. Rosie's storylines have included her rivalry with younger sister Sophie, being kidnapped by [[John Stape]] ([[Graeme Hawley]]), and her modeling ambitions.
Rosie is the eldest daughter of [[Kevin Webster]] ([[Michael Le Vell]]) and [[Sally Webster]] ([[Sally Dynevor]]), older sister to [[Sophie Webster]] ([[Ashleigh Middleton]], Emma Woodward, [[Brooke Vincent]]), and older half-sister to [[Jack Webster (Coronation Street)|Jack Webster]] and [[deceased]] [[Jake Webster (Coronation Street)|Jake Webster]]. Throughout her storylines, Rosie has been involved in various conflicts, including a rivalry with younger sister Sophie and being kidnapped by [[John Stape]] ([[Graeme Hawley]]). Additionally, Rosie has had aspirations of becoming a model, which has been a significant storyline for her character.


==Storylines==
==Development==
===1990–2012===
Rosie was born in December 1990. Her mother, Sally Webster (Sally Dynevor), went into labour while at home alone, and gave birth in a taxi before she could make it to the hospital. At first, the Websters hired [[Martin Platt]] ([[Sean Wilson (actor)|Sean Wilson]]), a neighbour, to mind Rosie during the day so that Sally could return to work. This caused conflict between Sally and Martin's mother-in-law, [[Ivy Tilsley]] ([[Lynne Perrie]]). However, Sally soon gave up work in order to look after Rosie full-time. Rosie had few storylines until the breakdown of her parents' marriage following her father Kevin's affair with [[Natalie Horrocks]] ([[Denise Welch]]). She then went through a bullying phase at school. Because of this and other difficulties, Sally decided to enroll her daughter at the more prestigious and academically rigorous Oakhill Grammar School. However, in order to afford the private school's fees, Sally took a job as a PA for [[Ian Davenport (Coronation Street)|Ian Davenport]] ([[Philip Bretherton]]), the father of one of Rosie's friends. Before long, Ian and Sally began an affair. Rosie discovered it, and disgusted, both distanced herself from her mother and tried to blackmail her over the affair.


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===Casting===
Rosie subsequently went through a [[Goth subculture|goth]] phase and began a relationship with [[Craig Harris (Coronation Street character)|Craig Harris]] ([[Richard Fleeshman]]). Sally disapproved of the relationship, particularly once she found out that Rosie and Craig were having sex. This led to conflict between mother and daughter, including a near-death experience as a result of a car crash. While the Websters eventually became reconciled to Craig and Rosie's relationship, it came to an end when Rosie refused to elope to [[Berlin]] with Craig.
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[[File:RosieCS2000.png|thumb|120px|right|Helen Flanagan as Rosie (2000).]]
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Rosie was initially played by child actress Emma Collinge. In January 2000, the press announced that Collinge would be departing the serial "to devote more time to gymnastics."<ref name="collinge">"[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/594408.stm New Rosie Webster for Corrie], ''[[BBC News]]''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> "Budding actress" Helen Flanagan was recast in the role. Nine-year-old Flanagan, from Bolton, Greater Manchester, joined the soap on 23 January 2000. At the time, Flanagan told the media that she was "thrilled" with her casting.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20121106011310/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-60888920.html I'm thrilled says Street's new Rosie], ''[[Birmingham Evening Mail]]''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> Flanagan discovered she had been chosen just a few days before Christmas Eve 1999, but was not permitted to reveal this to anyone for two weeks. In 2000, her mother Julia Flanagan commented, "She was really thrilled to get the part and she was bursting to tell people, but she just couldn't. The ''Coronation Street'' people had asked us not to tell anyone, so we had to keep quiet. The hardest bit for Helen was not telling her grandad because he's such a fan of the programme. When he did find out, he was absolutely thrilled. She is loving every minute. She's met most of the cast and is still very excited about it all."<ref>[http://archive.thisislancashire.co.uk/2000/1/8/745710.html "Why Helen stayed 'Mum'"]{{Dead link|date=December 2010}}, ''This is Lancashire''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref>


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In October 2011, it was announced that Flanagan had decided to leave ''Coronation Street''. While some had speculated that she would quit the series due to panic attacks on set, Flanagan said it was purely her own decision to leave because she had played Rosie for more than half of her life and decided to pursue other projects.<ref name=exit>{{cite web|last=Kilkelly|first=Daniel|title='Coronation Street' star Helen Flanagan confirms soap exit|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s3/coronation-street/news/a345779/coronation-street-star-helen-flanagan-confirms-soap-exit.html|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=([[Hearst Magazines UK]])|access-date=15 October 2011|date=15 October 2011}}</ref> Flanagan said that she "disliked" playing Rosie.<ref name="Disliked Rosie">{{cite web|last=Daniels|first=Colin|title='Coronation Street' Helen Flanagan: 'I didn't enjoy playing Rosie'|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s3/coronation-street/news/a363990/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-i-didnt-enjoy-playing-rosie.html|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines]]|access-date=5 February 2012|date=5 February 2012}}</ref> Speaking to the ''[[Sunday Mirror]]'', Flanagan commented: "When I'm acting, I like things to feel real, and I didn't like Rosie's bitchiness. I didn't enjoy playing that kind of character. She went through a phase of being such a catty girl. As an actress you do the best job you can, but I didn't enjoy it because it didn't feel real. I always said to myself that I was going to leave when I turned 21. For me, the show represents my childhood, and I just couldn't have properly become an adult if I hadn't left."<ref name="Disliked Rosie" />
Rosie began summer work as a PA in Underworld, the neighbourhood underwear factory, before beginning studies for her A-Levels at Weatherfield High. She began a secret affair with teacher [[John Stape]] ([[Graeme Hawley]]). [[Fiz Brown]] ([[Jennie McAlpine]]), John's girlfriend, suspected that John was having an affair, but mistakenly thought he was sleeping with Rosie's mother Sally. This led to a street brawl and, realising the trouble she had caused, Rosie split up with John.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://primetime.unrealitytv.co.uk/coronation-street-kevin-webster-goes-to-jail/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080120055454/http://primetime.unrealitytv.co.uk/coronation-street-kevin-webster-goes-to-jail/|url-status=dead|archive-date=20 January 2008|title=Coronation Street: Kevin Webster Goes To Jail!|publisher=Unreality TV|author=Lisa McGarry|date=18 October 2007|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref> However, John blamed Rosie for the consequences of their affair. John later returned and kidnapped her on two separate occasions—the first time he held her only briefly, but the second time he kidnapped her for several weeks, keeping her in the attic of his late grandmother's house. Rosie escaped when Fiz accidentally discovered her.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a133459/rosie-knocks-john-unconscious.html|title=Rosie knocks John unconscious|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Kris Green|date=3 November 2008|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref> Later, Rosie decided to make some money from her ordeal and sold her story to the local papers as well as posing for photographs. Her parents found out about this and strongly disapproved of it. Although John had been arrested for kidnapping, he contacted Rosie and asked her to visit him in prison. She did so, and she was overjoyed when he told her he was giving her £150,000 in compensation. Rosie used the money to buy a sports car and invest in shares of ''Underworld''. However, her ex-boyfriend [[Luke Strong (Coronation Street)|Luke Strong]] ([[Craig Kelly (actor)|Craig Kelly]]) conned her out of most of the money. Desperate for money, Rosie tried to blackmail John. She demanded £50,000 from him, saying that if he didn't pay up, she would claim he'd attacked her again. When John refused to pay her, Rosie carried out her threat, but inconsistencies in her story soon came to light. Rosie was forced to apologise and retract her statement to the police.


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On 10 July 2016, while appearing on an episode of ''[[Loose Women]]'', Flanagan expressed interest in reprising her role as Rosie, but admitted that she would prefer to only appear in a few episodes due to being busy as a mum.<ref>[http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a802779/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-wants-rosie-webster-return/ Coronation Street spoilers: Helen Flanagan wants to return as Rosie Webster<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> On 5 October 2016, it was announced that Flanagan would be reprising her role as Rosie for a short stint in early 2017. Flanagan commented: "I'm so excited to be returning to Coronation Street and being part of the Webster family again." Producer [[Kate Oates]] said: "The Websters have missed Rosie and so have we. With Sophie away on holiday with her sister, it seemed like the ideal time to bring Rosie back home with her for a visit. We are delighted that Helen is as keen to explore what Rosie has been up to away from the cobbles as we are."<ref>[http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a810653/coronation-street-spoilers-rosie-webster-return-causes-trouble-for-sophie/ Coronation Street spoilers: Rosie Webster's comeback will spark big trouble for Sophie<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> On 9 February 2017, it was announced that Flanagan had extended her contract to play Rosie for the foreseeable future.<ref name="digitalspy1"/>
Rosie embarked on a career as a topless model, to the disapproval of her parents. However, shortly after she discovered that her mother Sally was ill with breast cancer which caused her to reassess her own plans for a breast enlargement. Rosie was also supportive of her younger sister, [[Sophie Webster|Sophie]] ([[Brooke Vincent]]), when she found out that she was in a same-sex relationship with [[Sian Powers]] ([[Sacha Parkinson]]). Sophie and Sian run away together, but are found a month later by [[Jason Grimshaw]] ([[Ryan Thomas]]). Rosie therefore began to see Jason in a new light, and began a relationship. Rosie was devastated to learn that her father, [[Kevin Webster|Kevin]] ([[Michael Le Vell]]), had had an affair and fathered a son called Jack with [[Molly Dobbs]] ([[Vicky Binns]]). This caused Rosie to move out of the family home and to live with Jason. Rosie later forgave her father and asked to get to know her baby brother. However, this was a ruse to allow Rosie to enter a modelling audition, posing as mother and baby. Not only was Rosie unsuccessful, but when she returned home she realised that she had brought the wrong baby with her. A few months later, Rosie received an opportunity to take part in a reality television series. She broke off her relationship with Jason and left for [[London]].


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In December 2017, during an interview with [[OK!]] magazine, Flanagan revealed that she was pregnant with her second child and would take [[maternity leave]] at the beginning of 2018.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a845685/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-pregnant-second-child-scott-sinclair/ | title=Corrie's Helen Flanagan is expecting her second child!| website=[[Digital Spy]]| date=2017-12-18}}</ref> Flanagan left the show in April, indicating an interest in returning to the role at a future, unspecified date.<ref name="leave">{{Cite web | url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a853814/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-when-maternity-break/ | title=Corrie's Helen Flanagan confirms when she's leaving| website=[[Digital Spy]]| date=2018-04-03}}</ref>
===2017–2018===
Five years later, Rosie returns to the street with Sophie. Rosie and Sophie are arrested after a white powder is discovered in one of their bags but are released without charge as they find out it is only sweetener. Rosie later has one of her bags returned after leaving it in a taxi. Sophie questions her about what is in the bag however Rosie tells her it is only sweets. After opening the bag Rosie and Sophie discover [[cocaine]]. They bury it in [[Brian Packham]]'s ([[Peter Gunn (actor)|Peter Gunn]]) allotment. Rosie also sleeps with [[Adam Barlow]] ([[Sam Robertson]]) who finds out about the drugs and plans to help her and Sophie sell them.

Rosie gives Adam an alibi when his grandfather [[Ken Barlow]] ([[William Roache]]) is [[Who Attacked Ken?|pushed down the stairs by an unknown assailant]] and one of the suspects is Adam, who lies about where he was when Ken was attacked after he threatens to report her for the drugs. Rosie reveals to Sally that she no longer is modelling and she and Sophie join their stepfather [[Tim Metcalfe (Coronation Street)|Tim Metcalfe]]'s ([[Joe Duttine]]) window-cleaning business. When Sally is targeted by an [[internet troll]], Sally decides to resign from the council, so Rosie and Sophie find out the address of the person who placed an obituary for Sally in the paper. They meet [[Leah Buckley]] (Molly McGlynn) and confront her, however, she denies being the troll, but her stepmother is to blame and will get her to stop. Leah visits the Websters and asks Rosie and Sophie if Sally is okay. After Sophie tells Rosie about Sally's state, Rosie goes to see Leah and is surprised to spot her aunt, [[Gina Seddon]] ([[Connie Hyde]]), realising she is Leah's stepmother. Leah admits Gina is the troll and explains she is ill. Leah explains she has become bitter as, while she was there for Sally when she was ill, Sally was not there for Gina. When Rosie threatens to report Gina to the police, Leah counters by threatening to go to the papers about Sally neglecting her own sister. Rosie tells Sophie who the troll is and they both go to confront Gina. Gina is pleased to see them, but denies trolling Sally and when Leah arrives, she reveals Gina has [[bipolar disorder]]. When Gina goes missing, Rosie and Sophie help Leah find her and Gina turns up on the street. Gina wants to talk to Sally, but Leah bundles her into the car and drives off. Sally and Tim visit Gina and Leah and invite Gina and Leah to live with them.

==Creation==
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===Casting===
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[[File:Rosie2000.jpg|thumb|right|150px|Helen Flanagan as Rosie in 2000.]]
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Since Rosie was 10 years old for most of her pre-teen years, the character was played by child actress Emma Collinge.<ref name="collinge">"[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/entertainment/594408.stm New Rosie Webster for Corrie], ''[[BBC News]]''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> She played Rosie in various minor storylines, most notably portraying the effect that parental separation has upon a child, leading to a spell as a school bully. In January 2000, the press announced that Collinge would be departing the serial "to devote more time to gymnastics". "Budding actress" Helen Flanagan was recast in the role. Nine-year-old Flanagan, from Bolton, Greater Manchester, joined the soap on 23 January 2000.<ref name="collinge"/> At the time, Flanagan told the media that she was "thrilled" with her casting.<ref>"[https://web.archive.org/web/20121106011310/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-60888920.html I'm thrilled says Street's new Rosie], ''[[Birmingham Evening Mail]]''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> Flanagan discovered she had been chosen just a few days before Christmas Eve 1999, but she was not permitted to reveal this to anyone for two weeks. In 2000, her mother Julia Flanagan commented, "She was really thrilled to get the part and she was bursting to tell people but she just couldn't. The ''Coronation Street'' people had asked us not to tell anyone, so we had to keep quiet. The hardest bit for Helen was not telling her grandad because he's such a fan of the programme. When he did find out, he was absolutely thrilled. She is loving every minute. She's met most of the cast and is still very excited about it all."<ref>[http://archive.thisislancashire.co.uk/2000/1/8/745710.html "Why Helen stayed 'Mum'"]{{Dead link|date=December 2010}}, ''This is Lancashire''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref>


===Characterisation===
===Characterisation===
When portrayed by actress Emma Collinge. Rosie's appearance was that of a normal young child with unstyled, tied up hair. In 2005, the character tried carving herself an identity by going through a [[Goth subculture|goth]] phase, dressing in black, wearing black make-up and dying her hair jet black. The storyline was part of Rosie's romance with [[Craig Harris (Coronation Street)|Craig Harris]] ([[Richard Fleeshman]]), with both characters spending afternoons in Rosie's bedroom listening to a Dutch metal band called 'Stench of Death' and counting down the days to [[Risks to civilization, humans, and planet Earth|the apocalypse]]".<ref>"[https://www.theguardian.com/culture/tvandradioblog/2008/mar/10/tvsfavouritegothsarebackf TV's favourite goths are back from the dead], ''[[The Guardian]]''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> Flanagan commented on about her character's favourite band sums her character up, at the time of 'the goth stage' stating: "I hate all that Goth music such as [[Marilyn Manson]] and [[HIM (Finnish band)|HIM]] that Rosie seems to like. Her favourite rock band are called Stench of Death -that says it all."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.corrieblog.tv/2006/04/so_whats_it_lik.html|title=So, What's It Like To Snog Richard Fleeshman?|publisher=Corrie Blog|author=SinyMedia|date=25 April 2006|access-date=31 May 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024033026/http://www.corrieblog.tv/2006/04/so_whats_it_lik.html|archive-date=24 October 2007}}</ref>
Between 1990 and 2005, Rosie was portrayed as a typical child with her hair often tied up. However, in 2005, the character underwent a notable change in appearance, adopting a gothic style which included wearing black clothing and makeup, and dyeing her hair jet black.<ref>"[https://www.theguardian.com/culture/tvandradioblog/2008/mar/10/tvsfavouritegothsarebackf TV's favourite goths are back from the dead], ''[[The Guardian]]''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> In 2008, Flanagan expressed her dislike for her character's gothic attire in an interview with ''[[Daily Mirror|The Mirror]]'', stating, "I am used to being a goth, having dressed as one for so long as Rosie. It was all so unflattering - really unfeminine, with long black skirts that reached the floor and horrible jackets"<ref>"[https://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/celebs-on-sunday/2008/09/19/coronation-street-s-rosie-as-you-ve-never-seen-her-before-115875-20744498/ Coronation Street's Rosie as you've never seen her before...], ''The Mirror''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> Flanagan also commented on Rosie's attitude at the time, stating, "I hate all that goth music, such as [[Marilyn Manson]] and [[HIM (Finnish band)|HIM]], that Rosie seems to like. Her favorite rock band is called Stench of Death - that says it all."<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.corrieblog.tv/2006/04/so_whats_it_lik.html|title=So, What's It Like To Snog Richard Fleeshman?|publisher=Corrie Blog|author=SinyMedia|date=25 April 2006|access-date=31 May 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024033026/http://www.corrieblog.tv/2006/04/so_whats_it_lik.html|archive-date=24 October 2007}}</ref>


⚫
Rosie’s appearance was again changed around 2007 to reflect changes to the character's behaviour. Speaking about her character's new appearance Flanagan said: "I like to look sexy, but not tarty. Luckily, I do pretty well as Rosie – she's a glamorous girl, kind of a sassy secretary, so it's all pencil skirts, which I love, and a lot of low-cut tops. I don't want people looking at my boobs or want to be known for my boobs, but Corrie is a family show so thankfully they never go too far with it."<ref name="clothes">{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a130957/corrie-star-flanagan-reveals-goth-woes.html|title=Corrie star Flanagan reveals goth woes|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Daniel Kilkelly|date=23 September 2008|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref> When asked if her character is driven by money, Flanagan said, "I think she's attracted to the power and money. Rosie knows that she can use her womanly wiles to get what she wants. In the long run, she wants a life away from Weatherfield. She wants to be rich when she's older and aspires to be like Carla – gorgeous, sexy and wearing designer clothes," adding "It's not wholly about the money. She's more driven by glamour and power."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a157759/helen-flanagan-rosie-webster-corrie.html|title=Helen Flanagan (Rosie Webster, Corrie)|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Kris Green|date=2 June 2009|access-date=3 June 2009}}</ref> She also commented that her character, "can be a bit of a bitch but she does have a heart."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a157767/rosie-on-kevins-affair-and-tonys-downfall.html|title=Rosie on Kevin's affair and Tony's downfall|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Kris Green|date=2 June 2009|access-date=3 June 2009}}</ref>
In 2008, Flanagan revealed to ''[[Daily Mirror|The Mirror]]'' that she disliked her character's goth attire: "I'm used to being a goth, seeing as I had to dress as one as Rosie for so long. It was all so unflattering – really unfeminine, long black skirts down to the floor and horrible jackets."<ref>"[https://www.mirror.co.uk/celebs/celebs-on-sunday/2008/09/19/coronation-street-s-rosie-as-you-ve-never-seen-her-before-115875-20744498/ Coronation Street's Rosie as you've never seen her before...], ''The Mirror''. Retrieved 2008-09-26.</ref> She also said in another interview that she hated black mini skirts she used to wear.<ref name="clothes"/> The character's style also caused controversy in real life when headteachers in the Lancashire region warned any plans of copying the character's style would result in youngsters being sent home, it was said that: "Our advice to pupils considering following suit would be to experiment during the summer holidays. "The reason we have a school uniform is because it removes any danger of peer pressure to follow a trend or fashion, and although they may gripe about it the pupils do appreciate that. Going onto say: "We are not saying don't experiment, and I know pupils who have tried being gothic, but it isn't appropriate at school.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://archive.thisislancashire.co.uk/2005/1/17/449637.html|title=She's 'goth' the looks to thrill|work=Lancashire Evening Telegraph|date=17 January 2005|access-date=31 May 2009}}{{Dead link|date=December 2010}}</ref>


==Development==
==Storylines==
Rosie's birth was part of the ''Coronation Street'' Christmas storyline in 1990. She was the first baby born to long-running couple Kevin and Sally Webster. The character's name is taken from the fictional street she was born on, [[Rosamund Street]]. Rosie had fewer storylines until the breakdown of her parents' marriage following her father Kevin's affair with [[Natalie Horrocks]] ([[Denise Welch]]). She then went through a bullying phase at school and was transferred to Oakhill Grammar School. Following the discovery of an affair between her mother and [[Ian Davenport (Coronation Street)|Ian Davenport]] ([[Philip Bretherton]]), Rosie distanced herself from her mother and tried to blackmail her over the affair. Rosie subsequently went through a [[Goth subculture|goth]] phase and began a relationship with [[Craig Harris (Coronation Street character)|Craig Harris]] ([[Richard Fleeshman]]). Sally disapproved of the relationship, leading to conflict and a nearly fatal car crash. While the Websters eventually became reconciled to Craig and Rosie's relationship, it ended when Rosie refused to elope to [[Berlin]] with Craig.


Rosie began summer work as a PA at Underworld, the neighbourhood underwear factory, before beginning studies for her A-Levels at Weatherfield High where she began a secret affair with teacher [[John Stape]] ([[Graeme Hawley]]). After it ended badly, John kidnapped Rosie on two separate occasions.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a133459/rosie-knocks-john-unconscious.html|title=Rosie knocks John unconscious|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Kris Green|date=3 November 2008|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref> Later, Rosie sold her story to the local papers and posed for photographs. Following his arrest for kidnapping, John asked Rosie to visit him in prison and gave her £150,000 in compensation. Rosie bought a sports car and shares of ''Underworld'' but, her ex-boyfriend [[Luke Strong (Coronation Street)|Luke Strong]] ([[Craig Kelly (actor)|Craig Kelly]]) conned her out of most of the money. In response, Rosie tried to blackmail John for £50,000 from him, saying that she would claim he had attacked her again. When John refused to pay her, Rosie followed through on her threat, but ultimately failed and was forced to apologize and retract her statement to the police. Rosie then embarked on a career as a topless model, to the disapproval of her parents. She later received a opportunity to take part in a reality television series. Rosie broke off her relationship with live-in boyfriend [[Jason Grimshaw]] ([[Ryan Thomas]]) and left the show for [[London]].
===Background===
A character that viewers saw born in the soap, Rosie's birth was part of the ''Coronation Street'' Christmas storyline in 1990. She was the first baby born to long-running couple [[Kevin Webster|Kevin]] ([[Michael Le Vell]]) and [[Sally Webster]] ([[Sally Dynevor]]). Rosie was the first of two Christmas births featured that year, as [[Gail Platt]] ([[Helen Worth]]) gave birth to her son [[David Platt (Coronation Street)|David]] the next day. The character's name is taken from the fictional street she was born on, Rosamund Street.<ref name="itv">{{cite web|url=http://www.itv.com/Soaps/coronationstreet/castandcharacters/qtoz/RosieWebster/default.html|title=Coronation Street – Cast & Characters – Rosie Webster|publisher=ITV.com|author=Webmaster|year=2007|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref>


Five years later, Rosie returned to the street with Sophie. Rosie reveals to Sally that she is no longer modelling, and she and Sophie join their stepfather [[Tim Metcalfe (Coronation Street)|Tim Metcalfe]]'s ([[Joe Duttine]]) window-cleaning business.
===Transformation===
The character went through some personality changes in 2007, with her appearance becoming more glamorous and her behaviour became more manipulative and troublesome. Speaking about her character's new appearance Flanagan said: "I like to look sexy, but not tarty. Luckily, I do pretty well as Rosie – she's a glamorous girl, kind of a sassy secretary, so it's all pencil skirts, which I love, and a lot of low-cut tops. I don't want people looking at my boobs or want to be known for my boobs, but Corrie is a family show so thankfully they never go too far with it."<ref name="clothes">{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a130957/corrie-star-flanagan-reveals-goth-woes.html|title=Corrie star Flanagan reveals goth woes|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Daniel Kilkelly|date=23 September 2008|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref>


⚫
==Reception==
⚫
Flanagan later revealed to [[Digital Spy]] about what drives her character. When asked about if her character is driven by money, she said: "I think she's attracted to the power and money. Rosie knows that she can use her womanly wiles to get what she wants. In the long run, she wants a life away from Weatherfield. She wants to be rich when she's older and aspires to be like Carla – gorgeous, sexy and wearing designer clothes." adding "It's not wholly about the money. She's more driven by glamour and power."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a157759/helen-flanagan-rosie-webster-corrie.html|title=Helen Flanagan (Rosie Webster, Corrie)|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Kris Green|date=2 June 2009|access-date=3 June 2009}}</ref> She also spoke how the character can be 'a bit of a bitch' but she does have a heart.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/a157767/rosie-on-kevins-affair-and-tonys-downfall.html|title=Rosie on Kevin's affair and Tony's downfall|publisher=Digital Spy|author=Kris Green|date=2 June 2009|access-date=3 June 2009}}</ref>
In 2005, Rosie's gothic appearance caused controversy in real life, with Lancashire headteachers warning students against copying her style. One teacher even stated that "if pupils are inspired to go gothic after watching Coronation Street, then they will be breaching school rules."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.lancashiretelegraph.co.uk/news/5800095.goth-looks-thrill/|title=She's 'goth' the looks to thrill|work=Lancashire Evening Telegraph|date=17 January 2005|access-date=15 February 2023}}</ref>


⚫
The character's evolution over the years has been noted by various commentators. Jon Wise of ''[[The Sunday People|The People]]'' described her as having transformed "from teenage Goth to saucy minx and superbitch"<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.people.co.uk/news/tm_headline=we-met-in-a-sauna-and-it-s-been-hot-ever-since&method=full&objectid=20654956&siteid=93463-name_page.html|title=We met in a sauna.. and it's been hot ever since|publisher=[[The Sunday People|The People]]|author=Jon Wise|date=20 July 2008|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref> Flanagan's portrayal of Rosie has garnered attention from the public and critics alike, with the actress receiving nominations for several awards. She was nominated for "Villain of the Year" at the 2008 [[British Soap Awards]] and "Sexiest Female" in 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/scoop/a307476/british-soap-awards-2011-voting-opens.html|title=British Soap Awards 2011 voting opens|last=Kilkelly|first=Daniel|date=7 March 2011|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hachette Filipacchi UK]]|access-date=7 March 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110308165749/http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/scoop/a307476/british-soap-awards-2011-voting-opens.html|url-status=live|archive-date=8 March 2011 }}</ref> In August 2017, In August 2017, she was also longlisted for "Funniest Female" and "Sexiest Female" at the [[Inside Soap Awards]], although she did not make it to the viewer-voted shortlist.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Harp|first1=Justin|title=Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks all make the ''Inside Soap'' Awards longlist|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/news/a836154/inside-soap-awards-longlist-coronation-street-eastenders-emmerdale-hollyoaks/|access-date=22 August 2017|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines UK]]|date=22 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Kilkelly|first1=Daniel|title=''Inside Soap'' Awards 2017 shortlist revealed – which Corrie, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks stars are up for prizes?|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a841879/inside-soap-awards-2017-shortlist/|access-date=4 November 2017|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines UK]]|date=31 October 2017}}</ref>
During the time of the character's compensation storyline, the plot saw her buy shares in the factory and go on to design her own range.

===Departure===
In October 2011, it was announced that Flanagan had decided to leave ''Coronation Street''. Flanagan had previously been suffering from panic attacks on set. This led to speculation that she would quit the serial. However, Flanagan said it was purely her own decision to leave because she had played Rosie for more than half of her life and decided to pursue other projects.<ref name=exit>{{cite web|last=Kilkelly|first=Daniel|title='Coronation Street' star Helen Flanagan confirms soap exit|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s3/coronation-street/news/a345779/coronation-street-star-helen-flanagan-confirms-soap-exit.html|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=([[Hearst Magazines UK]])|access-date=15 October 2011|date=15 October 2011}}</ref>

⚫
Flanagan said she "disliked" playing Rosie.<ref name="Disliked Rosie">{{cite web|last=Daniels|first=Colin|title='Coronation Street' Helen Flanagan: 'I didn't enjoy playing Rosie'|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/s3/coronation-street/news/a363990/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-i-didnt-enjoy-playing-rosie.html|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines]]|access-date=5 February 2012|date=5 February 2012}}</ref> Speaking to the ''[[Sunday Mirror]]'', Flanagan commented: "When I'm acting, I like things to feel real, and I didn't like Rosie's bitchiness. I didn't enjoy playing that kind of character. She went through a phase of being such a catty girl. As an actress you do the best job you can, but I didn't enjoy it because it didn't feel real. I always said to myself that I was going to leave when I turned 21. For me, the show represents my childhood, and I just couldn't have properly become an adult if I hadn't left. I'm so grateful for the opportunities Corrie has given me, but I was in a bubble and the time is right for me to go. It finally feels as though I've left my childhood behind. People keep asking me what I'm going to do next, but I just want to enjoy being me and live for the moment for a while. I've been on Corrie since I was 10. It hasn't just been my job, it's been my whole life."<ref name="Disliked Rosie" /> Flanagan added that she wanted to play a "completely different character, such as a role in ''[[Downton Abbey]]'' or [[Juliet]] in ''[[Romeo and Juliet]]''".<ref name="Disliked Rosie" />

===Reintroduction===
⚫
On 10 July 2016, while appearing on an episode of ''[[Loose Women]]'', Flanagan expressed interest in reprising her role as Rosie, but admitted that she would only prefer to appear in a few episodes due to being busy as a mum.<ref>[http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a802779/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-wants-rosie-webster-return/ Coronation Street spoilers: Helen Flanagan wants to return as Rosie Webster<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> On 5 October 2016, it was announced that Flanagan would be reprising her role as Rosie for a short stint in early 2017. Flanagan commented: "I'm so excited to be returning to Coronation Street and being part of the Webster family again." Producer Kate Oates said: "The Websters have missed Rosie and so have we. With Sophie away on holiday with her sister, it seemed like the ideal time to bring Rosie back home with her for a visit. We are delighted that Helen is as keen to explore what Rosie has been up to away from the cobbles as we are." Speaking at a press event, Oates confirmed that she's been "toying" with the idea of bringing back Rosie since taking over as producer. "Rosie is just such a colourful character," Oates explained. "I thought it'd be great for Sophie as well. I wanted to see Sophie maybe led up the garden path a bit and see her in a bit of trouble. I think that Rosie will cause Sophie a lot of headaches."<ref>[http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a810653/coronation-street-spoilers-rosie-webster-return-causes-trouble-for-sophie/ Coronation Street spoilers: Rosie Webster's comeback will spark big trouble for Sophie<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> She has since said that because she is enjoying it that she would like to stay in it longer than what she is contracted for. On 9 February 2017, it was announced that Flanagan had extended her contract meaning Rosie would remain for the foreseeable future, confirming this, Flanagan said: "I am having so much fun being back here playing Rosie again. The writing is hilarious and I am delighted to be staying around. I can't wait to see what Rosie is going to get up to." Producer Kate Oates added: "We are thrilled to have Helen back and delighted that she is now going to become a more permanent fixture in Weatherfield. Rosie is a classic ''Coronation Street'' comedy character and we are looking forward to seeing more of her antics in the future."<ref name="digitalspy1"/>

===Temporary departure===
⚫
In December 2017, during an interview with [[OK!]] magazine, Flanagan revealed that she was pregnant with her second child and due to take [[maternity leave]] at the beginning of 2018.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a845685/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-pregnant-second-child-scott-sinclair/ | title=Corrie's Helen Flanagan is expecting her second child!| date=2017-12-18}}</ref> Flanagan began her maternity in April, she revealed that she definitely wants to return as Rosie in the future but wasn't sure when.<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a853814/coronation-street-helen-flanagan-when-maternity-break/ | title=Corrie's Helen Flanagan confirms when she's leaving| date=2018-04-03}}</ref> In May 2018, it was announced that [[ITV (TV network)|ITV]] ''[[This Morning (TV programme)|This Morning]]'' presenters [[Phillip Scofield]] and [[Holly Willoughby]] would guest star in the soap as part of Rosie's departure storyline. Producer [[Kate Oates]] confirmed the crossover to the [[Radio Times]], promising that Rosie's (temporary) farewell from the soap will "be great comedy". "Phillip and Holly are coming in for a bit of fun as part of Helen Flanagan's exit story," she said. "It will be great comedy and they're such good sports".<ref>{{Cite web | url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a856305/coronation-street-cast-rosie-webster-exit-holly-and-phil-this-morning/ | title=Corrie enlists Holly and Phil for Rosie Webster's exit| date=2018-05-04}}</ref>

⚫
==Reception==
{{Expand section|date=May 2009}}
⚫
Jon Wise of ''[[The People]]'' commented on the character saying: "Her character has evolved from teenage Goth to saucy minx and superbitch."<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.people.co.uk/news/tm_headline=we-met-in-a-sauna-and-it-s-been-hot-ever-since&method=full&objectid=20654956&siteid=93463-name_page.html|title=We met in a sauna.. and it's been hot ever since|publisher=[[The People]]|author=Jon Wise|date=20 July 2008|access-date=31 May 2009}}</ref> Flanagan was nominated in the category of "Villain of the Year" at the 2008 [[British Soap Awards]], and "Sexiest Female" in 2011.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/scoop/a307476/british-soap-awards-2011-voting-opens.html|title=British Soap Awards 2011 voting opens|last=Kilkelly|first=Daniel|date=7 March 2011|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hachette Filipacchi UK]]|access-date=7 March 2011 |archive-url=https://www.webcitation.org/5x0jSLWib?url=http://www.digitalspy.co.uk/soaps/scoop/a307476/british-soap-awards-2011-voting-opens.html|url-status=live|archive-date=7 March 2011 }}</ref> In August 2017, Flanagan was longlisted for Funniest Female and Sexiest Female at the [[Inside Soap Awards]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Harp|first1=Justin|title=Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks all make the Inside Soap Awards longlist|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/emmerdale/news/a836154/inside-soap-awards-longlist-coronation-street-eastenders-emmerdale-hollyoaks/|access-date=22 August 2017|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines UK]]|date=22 August 2017}}</ref> She did not progress to the viewer-voted shortlist.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kilkelly|first1=Daniel|title=Inside Soap Awards 2017 shortlist revealed – which Corrie, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks stars are up for prizes?|url=http://www.digitalspy.com/soaps/coronation-street/news/a841879/inside-soap-awards-2017-shortlist/|access-date=4 November 2017|work=[[Digital Spy]]|publisher=[[Hearst Magazines UK]]|date=31 October 2017}}</ref>


==See also==
==See also==
*[[List of soap opera villains]]
* [[List of soap opera villains]]


==References==
==References==
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{{DEFAULTSORT:Webster, Rosie}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Webster, Rosie}}
[[Category:Coronation Street characters]]
[[Category:Coronation Street characters]]
[[Category:Female characters in television]]
[[Category:English female characters in soap operas]]
[[Category:Fictional models]]
[[Category:Fictional models]]
[[Category:Television characters introduced in 1990]]
[[Category:Television characters introduced in 1990]]
[[Category:Female villains]]
[[Category:Female villains]]
[[Category:Fictional blackmailers]]
[[Category:Fictional blackmailers]]
[[Category:Fictional people from Manchester]]

Latest revision as of 13:23, 23 November 2024

Rosie Webster
Coronation Street character
Helen Flanagan as Rosie Webster (2017)
Portrayed byEmma Collinge (1990–1999)
Helen Flanagan (2000–2018)
Duration1990–2012, 2017–2018
First appearanceEpisode 3163
24 December 1990
Last appearanceEpisode 9477
8 June 2018
ClassificationFormer; regular
Introduced byMervyn Watson (1990)
Kate Oates (2017)
Book appearancesCoronation Street: The Complete Saga
Spin-off
appearances		Coronation Street: Knights Tale (2010)
Just Rosie (2011)

Emma Collinge as Rosie Webster (1999)
In-universe information
Occupation
  • Personal Assistant
  • Model
  • Reality TV Star
  • Game Show TV Presenter
FatherKevin Webster
MotherSally Webster
StepfatherTim Metcalfe
StepmotherAlison Webster
Abi Webster
SistersSophie Webster
Half-brothersJake Webster
Jack Webster
GrandfathersBill Webster
Eddie Seddon
GrandmothersAlison Webster
Elsie Seddon
AuntsDebbie Webster
Gina Seddon
Other relativesPaul Seddon
Nicolette Seddon

Rosie Webster is a fictional character from the ITV soap opera Coronation Street. The character has been portrayed by two actresses: Emma Collinge from 1990 to 1999, and Helen Flanagan from 2000 to 2012, and from 2017 to 2018.[1][2] Flanagan has since said that she is unsure if she will return to the role.[3]

Rosie is the eldest daughter of Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell) and Sally Webster (Sally Dynevor), older sister to Sophie Webster (Ashleigh Middleton, Emma Woodward, Brooke Vincent), and older half-sister to Jack Webster and deceased Jake Webster. Throughout her storylines, Rosie has been involved in various conflicts, including a rivalry with younger sister Sophie and being kidnapped by John Stape (Graeme Hawley). Additionally, Rosie has had aspirations of becoming a model, which has been a significant storyline for her character.

Development

[edit]

Casting

[edit]
Helen Flanagan as Rosie (2000).

Rosie was initially played by child actress Emma Collinge. In January 2000, the press announced that Collinge would be departing the serial "to devote more time to gymnastics."[1] "Budding actress" Helen Flanagan was recast in the role. Nine-year-old Flanagan, from Bolton, Greater Manchester, joined the soap on 23 January 2000. At the time, Flanagan told the media that she was "thrilled" with her casting.[4] Flanagan discovered she had been chosen just a few days before Christmas Eve 1999, but was not permitted to reveal this to anyone for two weeks. In 2000, her mother Julia Flanagan commented, "She was really thrilled to get the part and she was bursting to tell people, but she just couldn't. The Coronation Street people had asked us not to tell anyone, so we had to keep quiet. The hardest bit for Helen was not telling her grandad because he's such a fan of the programme. When he did find out, he was absolutely thrilled. She is loving every minute. She's met most of the cast and is still very excited about it all."[5]

In October 2011, it was announced that Flanagan had decided to leave Coronation Street. While some had speculated that she would quit the series due to panic attacks on set, Flanagan said it was purely her own decision to leave because she had played Rosie for more than half of her life and decided to pursue other projects.[6] Flanagan said that she "disliked" playing Rosie.[7] Speaking to the Sunday Mirror, Flanagan commented: "When I'm acting, I like things to feel real, and I didn't like Rosie's bitchiness. I didn't enjoy playing that kind of character. She went through a phase of being such a catty girl. As an actress you do the best job you can, but I didn't enjoy it because it didn't feel real. I always said to myself that I was going to leave when I turned 21. For me, the show represents my childhood, and I just couldn't have properly become an adult if I hadn't left."[7]

On 10 July 2016, while appearing on an episode of Loose Women, Flanagan expressed interest in reprising her role as Rosie, but admitted that she would prefer to only appear in a few episodes due to being busy as a mum.[8] On 5 October 2016, it was announced that Flanagan would be reprising her role as Rosie for a short stint in early 2017. Flanagan commented: "I'm so excited to be returning to Coronation Street and being part of the Webster family again." Producer Kate Oates said: "The Websters have missed Rosie and so have we. With Sophie away on holiday with her sister, it seemed like the ideal time to bring Rosie back home with her for a visit. We are delighted that Helen is as keen to explore what Rosie has been up to away from the cobbles as we are."[9] On 9 February 2017, it was announced that Flanagan had extended her contract to play Rosie for the foreseeable future.[2]

In December 2017, during an interview with OK! magazine, Flanagan revealed that she was pregnant with her second child and would take maternity leave at the beginning of 2018.[10] Flanagan left the show in April, indicating an interest in returning to the role at a future, unspecified date.[3]

Characterisation

[edit]

Between 1990 and 2005, Rosie was portrayed as a typical child with her hair often tied up. However, in 2005, the character underwent a notable change in appearance, adopting a gothic style which included wearing black clothing and makeup, and dyeing her hair jet black.[11] In 2008, Flanagan expressed her dislike for her character's gothic attire in an interview with The Mirror, stating, "I am used to being a goth, having dressed as one for so long as Rosie. It was all so unflattering - really unfeminine, with long black skirts that reached the floor and horrible jackets"[12] Flanagan also commented on Rosie's attitude at the time, stating, "I hate all that goth music, such as Marilyn Manson and HIM, that Rosie seems to like. Her favorite rock band is called Stench of Death - that says it all."[13]

Rosie’s appearance was again changed around 2007 to reflect changes to the character's behaviour. Speaking about her character's new appearance Flanagan said: "I like to look sexy, but not tarty. Luckily, I do pretty well as Rosie – she's a glamorous girl, kind of a sassy secretary, so it's all pencil skirts, which I love, and a lot of low-cut tops. I don't want people looking at my boobs or want to be known for my boobs, but Corrie is a family show so thankfully they never go too far with it."[14] When asked if her character is driven by money, Flanagan said, "I think she's attracted to the power and money. Rosie knows that she can use her womanly wiles to get what she wants. In the long run, she wants a life away from Weatherfield. She wants to be rich when she's older and aspires to be like Carla – gorgeous, sexy and wearing designer clothes," adding "It's not wholly about the money. She's more driven by glamour and power."[15] She also commented that her character, "can be a bit of a bitch but she does have a heart."[16]

Storylines

[edit]

Rosie's birth was part of the Coronation Street Christmas storyline in 1990. She was the first baby born to long-running couple Kevin and Sally Webster. The character's name is taken from the fictional street she was born on, Rosamund Street. Rosie had fewer storylines until the breakdown of her parents' marriage following her father Kevin's affair with Natalie Horrocks (Denise Welch). She then went through a bullying phase at school and was transferred to Oakhill Grammar School. Following the discovery of an affair between her mother and Ian Davenport (Philip Bretherton), Rosie distanced herself from her mother and tried to blackmail her over the affair. Rosie subsequently went through a goth phase and began a relationship with Craig Harris (Richard Fleeshman). Sally disapproved of the relationship, leading to conflict and a nearly fatal car crash. While the Websters eventually became reconciled to Craig and Rosie's relationship, it ended when Rosie refused to elope to Berlin with Craig.

Rosie began summer work as a PA at Underworld, the neighbourhood underwear factory, before beginning studies for her A-Levels at Weatherfield High where she began a secret affair with teacher John Stape (Graeme Hawley). After it ended badly, John kidnapped Rosie on two separate occasions.[17] Later, Rosie sold her story to the local papers and posed for photographs. Following his arrest for kidnapping, John asked Rosie to visit him in prison and gave her £150,000 in compensation. Rosie bought a sports car and shares of Underworld but, her ex-boyfriend Luke Strong (Craig Kelly) conned her out of most of the money. In response, Rosie tried to blackmail John for £50,000 from him, saying that she would claim he had attacked her again. When John refused to pay her, Rosie followed through on her threat, but ultimately failed and was forced to apologize and retract her statement to the police. Rosie then embarked on a career as a topless model, to the disapproval of her parents. She later received a opportunity to take part in a reality television series. Rosie broke off her relationship with live-in boyfriend Jason Grimshaw (Ryan Thomas) and left the show for London.

Five years later, Rosie returned to the street with Sophie. Rosie reveals to Sally that she is no longer modelling, and she and Sophie join their stepfather Tim Metcalfe's (Joe Duttine) window-cleaning business.

Reception

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In 2005, Rosie's gothic appearance caused controversy in real life, with Lancashire headteachers warning students against copying her style. One teacher even stated that "if pupils are inspired to go gothic after watching Coronation Street, then they will be breaching school rules."[18]

The character's evolution over the years has been noted by various commentators. Jon Wise of The People described her as having transformed "from teenage Goth to saucy minx and superbitch"[19] Flanagan's portrayal of Rosie has garnered attention from the public and critics alike, with the actress receiving nominations for several awards. She was nominated for "Villain of the Year" at the 2008 British Soap Awards and "Sexiest Female" in 2011.[20] In August 2017, In August 2017, she was also longlisted for "Funniest Female" and "Sexiest Female" at the Inside Soap Awards, although she did not make it to the viewer-voted shortlist.[21][22]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ a b "New Rosie Webster for Corrie, BBC News. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
  2. ^ a b Coronation Street's Rosie Webster is going nowhere as Helen Flanagan signs a new contract
  3. ^ a b "Corrie's Helen Flanagan confirms when she's leaving". Digital Spy. 3 April 2018.
  4. ^ "I'm thrilled says Street's new Rosie, Birmingham Evening Mail. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
  5. ^ "Why Helen stayed 'Mum'"[dead link‍], This is Lancashire. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
  6. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (15 October 2011). "'Coronation Street' star Helen Flanagan confirms soap exit". Digital Spy. (Hearst Magazines UK). Retrieved 15 October 2011.
  7. ^ a b Daniels, Colin (5 February 2012). "'Coronation Street' Helen Flanagan: 'I didn't enjoy playing Rosie'". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines. Retrieved 5 February 2012.
  8. ^ Coronation Street spoilers: Helen Flanagan wants to return as Rosie Webster
  9. ^ Coronation Street spoilers: Rosie Webster's comeback will spark big trouble for Sophie
  10. ^ "Corrie's Helen Flanagan is expecting her second child!". Digital Spy. 18 December 2017.
  11. ^ "TV's favourite goths are back from the dead, The Guardian. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
  12. ^ "Coronation Street's Rosie as you've never seen her before..., The Mirror. Retrieved 2008-09-26.
  13. ^ SinyMedia (25 April 2006). "So, What's It Like To Snog Richard Fleeshman?". Corrie Blog. Archived from the original on 24 October 2007. Retrieved 31 May 2009.
  14. ^ Daniel Kilkelly (23 September 2008). "Corrie star Flanagan reveals goth woes". Digital Spy. Retrieved 31 May 2009.
  15. ^ Kris Green (2 June 2009). "Helen Flanagan (Rosie Webster, Corrie)". Digital Spy. Retrieved 3 June 2009.
  16. ^ Kris Green (2 June 2009). "Rosie on Kevin's affair and Tony's downfall". Digital Spy. Retrieved 3 June 2009.
  17. ^ Kris Green (3 November 2008). "Rosie knocks John unconscious". Digital Spy. Retrieved 31 May 2009.
  18. ^ "She's 'goth' the looks to thrill". Lancashire Evening Telegraph. 17 January 2005. Retrieved 15 February 2023.
  19. ^ Jon Wise (20 July 2008). "We met in a sauna.. and it's been hot ever since". The People. Retrieved 31 May 2009.
  20. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (7 March 2011). "British Soap Awards 2011 voting opens". Digital Spy. Hachette Filipacchi UK. Archived from the original on 8 March 2011. Retrieved 7 March 2011.
  21. ^ Harp, Justin (22 August 2017). "Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks all make the Inside Soap Awards longlist". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved 22 August 2017.
  22. ^ Kilkelly, Daniel (31 October 2017). "Inside Soap Awards 2017 shortlist revealed – which Corrie, EastEnders, Emmerdale and Hollyoaks stars are up for prizes?". Digital Spy. Hearst Magazines UK. Retrieved 4 November 2017.
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