Corrie legend Sue Cleaver, 63, appears to be like unrecognisable following sudden makeover

Former Coronation Street actress Sue Cleaver looks completely different following an unexpected makeover. She’s been transformed for a new role, and people think she looks unrecognisable

A soap legend recently underwent an unexpected makeover to take on a new role, and she looks so different to how people likely remember her in Coronation Street. Sue Cleaver, 63, bid farewell to Coronation Street in 2025, and it’s just been announced she’s heading for the theatre; yet audiences have been absolutely gobsmacked by her dramatic makeover.

Sue, recognised for portraying Eileen Grimshaw in the long-running soap drama, had been a fixture on the Cobbles for over two decades until she decided it was time for new adventures last year. It’s now been confirmed she has landed a new part, but people can’t believe how she’s transformed to take on the role.

It comes after she got candid about her personal life. Previously, Sue also opened up about a hidden health battle.

A clip was recently posted by dinnerladies the play, which read: “Meet the cast of dinnerladies! Get to know the faces behind Victoria Wood’s iconic characters, coming together on stage for this much-loved classic.”

Since Sue’s involvement with the production was confirmed, numerous posts have appeared across social media platforms, with countless people expressing identical sentiments. They believe Sue appears completely unrecognisable.

One said: “Noooo wayyyyyyyyyy. I had to look at this twice hahaha awesome! Should be good!”

Another added: “I thought Sue Cleaver was Madge from Neighbours for a second there! Great cast but still sad that Victoria is gone.”

A third noted: “I didn’t recognise Sue Cleaver.” Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “Woop woop.”

One more observed: “Also… the fact you was actually in the show makes this even more iconic. Well done Sue.”

In the footage, Sue and the ensemble can be seen in full costume, and it’s safe to say she appears completely transformed. Sporting lengthier locks, a striking uniform and a very different appearance – she looks miles apart from her character Eileen.

The performer will star alongside longtime friend Les Dennis in a touring version of Victoria Wood’s Dinnerladies. It’s clear she’s absolutely thrilled about the opportunity.

In a previous chat with the Mirror, she revealed: “When they asked me, I just thought, ‘I can’t not do this’.” She also disclosed she’ll be taking on the part of cantankerous Jean, previously portrayed by actress Anne Reid.

She continued: “I love Anne, and I’ve always loved the character of Jean. It felt a very natural fit for me – I’m really looking forward to it, ’cause she’s got some of the best, most deadpan lines, hasn’t she? As an aggressive depressive who knows it all.”

For those unfamiliar, Sue previously portrayed bread delivery woman Glenda in the original television programme. She remains the sole performer in the fresh production who genuinely featured in the series, which aired from 1998 to 2000 on BBC1.

– The dinnerladies UK tour starts in January with tickets available now at dinnerladiestheplay.co.uk.