Coronation Street star Sue Devaney has been thrust into the spotlight this week, receiving glowing praise from none other than Doctor Who legend Russell T Davies following

a long-awaited first meeting that left both stars beaming. Known to millions as the beloved Debbie Webster in ITV’s iconic soap, Devaney’s recognition goes beyond her acting prowess,

highlighting her impact on the Greater Manchester community and her unwavering support for LGBT causes.

The occasion was Manchester Pride 2025, a celebration of diversity, acceptance, and the vibrant cultural life of the city. Both Devaney and Davies were announced as joint recipients of the prestigious Your Manchester Icon Award, an honour reserved for those whose work and influence have made a lasting contribution to Greater Manchester and its LGBT community. For Devaney, the award marks not just a career milestone but a testament to her generosity, authenticity, and connection with her fans.

After receiving the award, Davies shared his admiration for Devaney in a heartfelt Instagram post, sending social media into a frenzy. Accompanied by a selfie that captured their infectious energy, he wrote: “Sue Devaney! I’ve worshipped her from afar for 40 years. Seriously. She’s wonderful.” His words resonated widely, illustrating the long-standing respect and admiration he has held for the Coronation Street star since his early days in Manchester.

Speaking to reporters at the Pride event, Davies reflected on their parallel paths over the years. “We kind of moved in the same circles but never met,” he revealed. “It’s incredible that it took until now for us to finally come face-to-face.” That moment, he explained, was made even more memorable by the joyful chaos captured in the selfie: “It’s entirely appropriate after all these years that I took a photo in which we look INSANE. We look like we could eat a car. But she is, as I suspected, absolutely wonderful. Oh we hooted. Love you Sue!”

Devaney, ever gracious, responded to Davies’ public praise in the comments, delighting fans with her warmth and humour. “It was an absolute honour to share that stage with you Russell and to finally give you the biggest hug! I love you and everything you stand for! Date soon please! You, me and the fridge!” Her playful banter perfectly captured the affectionate camaraderie that developed between the two stars, highlighting the personal as well as professional significance of the event.

The response from the Coronation Street family was equally effusive. Jane Danson, who portrays Leanne Battersby, was quick to share her admiration on social media. “She is without a doubt sunshine in human form. Loved by everyone. I adore working with her and love our chat. Lovely you finally met,” Danson wrote, highlighting both the warmth Devaney brings to the set and the impact of her personality on her colleagues.

Daniel Brocklebank, known to Corrie fans as the beloved Billy Mayhew, echoed the sentiment. “I adore that woman! Beautiful that you’ve both finally met,” he commented on Davies’ post, further cementing Devaney’s reputation as a cherished presence both on and off screen.

Cait Fitton, who plays Lauren Bolton, emphasized Devaney’s reliability and infectious positivity. “What a beauty she is inside and out. You can always rely on Sue for a smile,” she wrote, underscoring how her co-star’s personality extends far beyond her iconic role as Debbie Webster.

Even the newer generation of Coronation Street alumni weighed in. Sally Carman-Duttine, who portrays Abi Webster, affectionately referred to Devaney as “Sunshine Sue,” while former Corrie star Colson Smith called her “hilarious,” demonstrating that Devaney’s magnetic charm and professionalism have left a lasting impression across multiple casts and generations.

The significance of this recognition goes beyond friendly praise. Sue Devaney’s career has spanned decades, yet her presence at Manchester Pride 2025 highlights the intersection of celebrity influence and social responsibility. Her advocacy, combined with her relatable portrayal of Debbie Webster, positions her as not only a celebrated actress but a community figure who embodies resilience, empathy, and inclusivity.

Russell T Davies’ admiration also reflects a rare meeting of two iconic British entertainment worlds: the enduring legacy of Coronation Street and the cultural phenomenon of Doctor Who. Fans have long known that both Davies and Devaney have deep roots in Manchester, and their parallel trajectories—though never intersecting until now—symbolize the rich tapestry of talent the city has produced. Their meeting was as much a celebration of personal achievements as it was a recognition of Manchester’s broader creative influence.

The social media response to the encounter has been overwhelming. Fans flocked to Instagram to express delight at seeing their two favourites together, praising not only their individual accomplishments but the palpable chemistry and mutual respect between the two stars. Many highlighted the infectious joy of their selfie, noting that the moment seemed to capture decades of admiration finally realized in person.

Beyond the surface glamour of awards and social media moments, this meeting carries deeper narrative significance for Coronation Street fans. Sue Devaney’s recognition brings attention to the stories she helps tell on the soap—stories of resilience, family, and the small victories and heartaches of everyday life in Weatherfield. Her characters often navigate moral complexities, emotional upheavals, and societal challenges, making her portrayal resonate across audiences. In this context, the Your Manchester Icon Award represents both a career milestone and an affirmation of the power of storytelling to inspire and connect communities.

Devaney’s career longevity is notable not just for its span but for its versatility. From her earliest roles to her current work on Coronation Street, she has consistently brought warmth, authenticity, and relatability to her characters. Her ability to balance humour with gravitas, light-heartedness with emotional depth, is what has earned her the affection of co-stars and fans alike. The recognition from Davies, who himself has shaped modern British television with shows that tackle social issues and celebrate diversity, feels especially fitting—a nod from one storytelling legend to another.

Moreover, Manchester Pride 2025 itself served as a vibrant backdrop for this historic meeting. The event, renowned for celebrating inclusion and community, underscores the importance of visibility and advocacy. Devaney’s presence, alongside Russell T Davies, reinforces the idea that cultural icons can champion social causes while remaining grounded and approachable. Their shared recognition speaks volumes about how local pride, artistry, and activism can converge in meaningful ways.

For Coronation Street enthusiasts, the week ahead promises more than just award news. The ripple effect of this meeting is already visible in the interactions across the cast and the renewed attention on Devaney’s role in the show. The warmth, humour, and heartfelt admiration displayed in social media posts and interviews paint a picture of an actor whose influence extends well beyond scripted lines, inspiring colleagues and fans alike.

In conclusion, Sue Devaney’s recognition by Russell T Davies at Manchester Pride 2025 is a moment that celebrates both achievement and connection. From her award-winning career as Debbie Webster to her lasting impact on the Manchester community and the LGBT community, Devaney has earned accolades not just for talent, but for character, integrity, and heart. As fans continue to share their delight and co-stars continue to praise her, one thing is certain: Sue Devaney’s star shines brighter than ever, and her legacy—on Coronation Street and beyond—is one of inspiration, warmth, and enduring influence.