We all knew it was coming, but seemingly no one was prepared for Bill Roache’s moving speech about his late Coronation Street co-star Anne Kirkbride at the National Television Awards.
Anne, who was known for playing fan favourite character Deirdre Barlow, passed away just two days ago, aged just 60. Anne will be sorely missed by fans, friends and colleagues alike after 44 years on the show.
Her on-screen husband Bill Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, paid tribute from the stage. It was short, bittersweet and extremely touching.
“We share your grief and sadness at losing such a beautiful person. I love you Anne,” said Bill.
Anne Kirkbride. "I love you Anne" pic.twitter.com/PetWzw0Ylr
— ITV (@ITV) January 21, 2015
And no – you weren’t the only one welling up. The response on Twitter shows just how strong the public’s feeling about Anne is.
absolutely sobbing my heart out at this Anne Kirkbride tribute, Deirdre Barlow was my fave 😭😭😭
— Lydia (@lydiajaynex) January 21, 2015
Filled up at Anne Kirkbride's tribute. Cancer is truly a horrible disease, and takes the best of people! Sleep peacefully Anne #NTA
— Rachel Lister (@Rachellister) January 21, 2015
Just cried at William Roache paying respect to Anne Kirkbride💔😪.Beautiful speech for a beautiful person @Beverleycallard thoughts with you x
— charlotte carlton (@charcarlton) January 21, 2015
Cried at the Anne Kirkbride tribute like a wuss. Poor Bill Roche. #NTAS
— Hayley Page (@HayleyJo1984) January 21, 2015
Completley cried my eyes out at bill roache's tribute speech to Anne kirkbride, far too emotional!
— emily (@emilyyyball_) January 21, 2015
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