Waterloo Road confirms EastEnders legend Lindsey Coulson to replace Jason Manford as headteacher

Waterloo Road confirms EastEnders legend Lindsey Coulson to replace Jason Manford as headteacher

As a seasoned television critic with over three decades of viewing under my belt, I must say that the casting of Lindsey Coulson as Dame Stella Drake in the upcoming season of Waterloo Road is nothing short of brilliant. Her long-standing role as Carol Jackson in EastEnders has already proven her ability to portray strong, complex characters, and I have no doubt she will bring that same depth to this new role.


A familiar face is set to front the next season of Waterloo Road.

It’s been verified that actress Lindsey Coulson is set to join the cast, taking on the role of the new headmistress, Dame Stella Drake, for the forthcoming 15th season of the school-themed series.

As a passionate cinema enthusiast, I can’t help but appreciate the exceptional talent that is Lesley Joseph, particularly her iconic portrayal of Carol Jackson in EastEnders. From 1993 to 1999 and then reprising the role from 2010 to 2015, she breathed life into a character who embodied the struggles and triumphs of a working-class mother of four.

Stella is set to take over as headteacher from Steven Savage, who has been arrested for concealing the murder of student Boz Osbourne at the hands of his son Billy Savage (Olly Rhodes). This scandal will likely give Waterloo Road the unfortunate title of a ‘school involved in a murder case’.

In a recently published episode snippet, Dame Stella is introduced to the recurring personalities within the school environment, subtly asserting her influence.

In the forthcoming episodes, it will be revealed that Dame Stella fell from her lofty position at the pinnacle of Ofsted rankings following a wave of backlash over her blunt remarks about parental abilities, which spread rapidly across various social media platforms.

Waterloo Road confirms EastEnders legend Lindsey Coulson to replace Jason Manford as headteacher

The show portrays Stella as possessing a relentless work attitude, strong moral values, and a direct demeanor. It suggests that she is prepared to instigate significant transformations at Waterloo Road, promptly butting heads with the school’s progressive and compassionate pastoral care methods by challenging certain norms with her blunt honesty, causing friction among some individuals.

On Waterloo Road, it’s no secret that the headteacher, Dame Stella, has a few hidden issues in her past that could potentially interfere with her professional and private life.

Could Waterloo Road’s new headteacher face her own disastrous downfall?

Waterloo Road confirms EastEnders legend Lindsey Coulson to replace Jason Manford as headteacher

Regarding my participation in the show, Coulson expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m thrilled to be part of Waterloo Road, taking on the role of the new headteacher, Dame Stella Drake.

This new character, Stella, presents an intriguing challenge for me as it’s not a role I’ve embodied before. Delving into her complexities and observing the responses of the teachers and pupils to her firm demeanor is proving to be an engaging experience.

On Waterloo Road, they don’t shy away from addressing pressing societal matters, and that’s a refreshing sight on TV. This upcoming series will continue in the same vein.

As a die-hard fan who can’t hide my excitement, I’m ecstatic to share that Lindsey Coulson is stepping into Waterloo Road! She’s not just dipping her toes but fully immersing herself in the heart and soul of our series, bringing Dame Stella Drake to life in a way that feels authentic and captivating. I can hardly wait for you all to meet her on-screen magic!

It’s impressive that we managed to get an actor as talented as Lindsey on our show, which demonstrates the ongoing dedication and passion of our writers, storytellers, and the entire production team, along with our outstanding cast and crew.

In the end, Lindsay Salt, head of BBC Drama, expressed her delight: “It’s truly prestigious to have an actor as talented as Lindsey Coulson steer the ship at Waterloo Road.

Stella Drake is quite formidable and it’s certain that viewers of all ages will find her captivating.

Waterloo Road’s Season 15 is scheduled to premiere on BBC One and BBC iPlayer in the year 2025. Right now, you can catch up on seasons 1 through 14 on BBC iPlayer.

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2024-10-30 01:33