Coronation Street has aired a rare update about a beloved character who hasn't been seen in six years.
The world's longest-running soap opera, which made its debut on ITV in 1960, has seen hundreds of memorable characters come and go, but a firm favourite remains Emily Bishop, who was a staple on the cobbles between 1961 and 2016.
Played by actress Eileen Derbyshire, who is now 94, Emily left the Street a decade ago for what was initially an "extended break."
She last appeared on the soap in 2019 via a video call to Ken Barlow (William Roache) on his birthday.
Emily Bishop was last seen on Coronation Street via a video call in 2019
|ITV
Due to the character's classic status, she continues to be talked about by Weatherfield residents, but this week, Emily was mentioned for the first time in a while.
The residents confirmed some time ago that Emily has settled in Scotland, and her name occasionally comes up in conversation.
On Wednesday's episode on February 18, Emily's close friend Rita Tanner (Barbara Knox) mentioned Emily again to have a bit of a moan about her former neighbour.
Brian Packham (Peter Gunn) questioned Rita as to why she seemed frustrated by something on her phone.
Emily Bishop left Coronation Street in 2016
|ITV
Rita explained that Emily texts her with spiritual pictures on a daily basis, with the character admitting she'd rather not receive so many.
Brian suggested Rita respond with a "disappointing affirmation," but she didn't want to hurt her friend's feelings.
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Emily Bishop was mentioned on Coronation Street this week
|ITV
However, she opted to send one instead to Jenny Connor (Sally Ann Matthews), who recently departed from the Street.
Oliver Holt posted a sweet update about his mother on X, sharing a snap of the 1969 cast, which included his mother.
Mr Holt penned: "Back at my mum’s place. Found this packed away. Halcyon days of Coronation Street."
A second snap depicted another cast photo as the stars of the time celebrated the soap's 30th anniversary.
He wrote alongside the second picture: "Still in its wrapping – photo marking 30th anniversary of the start of the Street."
The historic captures piqued fans' interest about Ms Derbyshire, with some taking to the comments to inquire about the legendary actress.
Eileen Derbyshire and Betty Driver in 1985
|GETTY
"I'm loving these memories, but is your Mum okay?" one wrote, to which Mr Holt responded: "She’s doing ok, Matthew. It’s kind of you to ask.
"She’s 93 now so she has a few issues but she’s well looked after and is happy." (sic)
The actress's work was honoured in 2010 when she was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for her services to drama.
While many long-term fans have expressed hope Emily might return to the cobbles, it seems unlikely given Ms Derbyshire's lengthy period away from the soap and her son's recent updates, although the latest on-screen chat proves her character is still alive and well.