Barbara Ferris, Coronation Street actress, dies aged 85

In the beginning of her TV career, Ferris appeared on shows like “Cool for Cats,” where she acted alongside Amanda Barrie and Una Stubbs, and took on the character of Nona Willis, a barmaid, in “Coronation Street.

In 1961, she started playing a character on the ITV soap opera, but left the role after just 10 episodes because she found it difficult to grasp the Lancastrian dialect.

Besides being recognized for her role, Ferris is equally famous for the 1965 film titled “Catch Us If You Can”. In this production, she portrays the character of Dinah, a romantic lead who elopes with Dave Clark.

In 1990, her last on-screen role was in the movie “The Krays,” which was helmed by director Peter Medak. After that, she chose to focus on her family and explore the world through travel, deciding to retire.

Or more concisely:

She starred in the 1990 film “The Krays,” directed by Peter Medak, before retiring to prioritize family life and travel.

Throughout her acting career, Ferris played numerous roles on stage, such as Pam in Edward Bond’s play “Saved” (1965) and Moll in the Jacobean comedy “A Chaste Maid in Cheapside” (1966). Both productions debuted at the Royal Court Theatre under the direction of William Gaskill.

Additionally, she acted in two notable roles: one as a teacher among three (alongside Anna Massey and Lynn Redgrave) in David Hare’s 1971 play titled “Sl*g,” and another as Mrs. Elvsted in John Osborne’s rendition of Hedda Gabler, which was staged in 1972.

As a passionate thespian, I’ve had the privilege of gracing the stage in various productions. Among these memorable roles were those in Michael Frayn’s Alphabetical Order, Stanley Price’s Moving, Alan Ayckbourn’s Season’s Greetings, and Neil Simon’s Broadway Bound at the Greenwich Theatre. What a thrill it was to be part of these exceptional plays!

Many heartfelt tributes have been shared for Barbara Ferris since her unfortunate death was announced. One fan expressed their condolences on Twitter saying, “It’s sad to learn about the passing of Barbara Ferris. She was in some fantastic films, but I particularly cherished Sparrows Can’t Sing and Catch Us If You Can because of Yootha and Brian! Rest In Peace, Barbara.

Another added: “Very sad to hear that Barbara Ferris has passed away. #RIP”

Ferris leaves behind her spouse, film producer John Quested, as well as their trio of children – Nicholas, Christopher, and Catherine.