Why did Eva Price leave Coronation Street back in 2018, and what has brought her back after seven years?Catherine Tyldesley, who famously played the glamorous and gutsy Eva Price, has confirmed her highly anticipated return to ITV’s Coronation Street.
Her comeback as the new landlady of the iconic Rovers Return is sending shockwaves through soapland. But what led to her departure in the first place, and why is now the right time for Eva’s return?
Let’s explore the past, present, and future of one of Corrie’s most beloved characters.
Who Was Eva Price Before She Left Coronation Street?
Image – Source
Eva Price was introduced in 2011 as the fun-loving and fiery daughter of Stella Price. Over the next seven years, she became a major figure on Coronation Street, known for her high-drama relationships, quick wit, and emotional depth.
Her most significant storylines included:
- A passionate but tragic relationship with Aidan Connor
- A controversial baby plot involving Toyah Battersby
- Emotional family dynamics with Leanne and Stella
- Working at the Rovers and later facing heartbreak after Aidan’s suicide
Eva eventually left Weatherfield in 2018, taking her daughter Susie to France for a fresh start.
Why Did Catherine Tyldesley Leave Coronation Street in 2018?
Catherine Tyldesley’s original departure from the soap was a personal decision. She had portrayed Eva Price for seven years and felt the time had come to explore new challenges.
In interviews at the time, she shared that she wanted to grow professionally and focus on other acting opportunities, while also spending more time with her family. The intensity of soap filming schedules often leaves little flexibility for other projects or personal life, and Tyldesley was ready for a change.
She left on good terms with ITV and producers, and the character of Eva was not killed off—leaving the door open for a future return.
What Led to Eva Price’s Return in 2025?
Image – Source
In August 2025, ITV confirmed that Eva Price would return to Coronation Street, seven years after she first left the cobbles. Catherine Tyldesley revealed in an exclusive with the Manchester Evening News that the comeback felt “serendipitous.”
She was filming abroad when she got a call from her agent about a conversation with Corrie producer Kate Brooks. Initially, she assumed it was for a funeral scene. Instead, she was offered the iconic role of Rovers Return landlady, a dream come true for the actress.
“I screamed and clapped when they asked me to be landlady,” Tyldesley shared. “It’s such a cool job. I remember thinking that as a kid watching the show.”
Why Was Now the Right Time for Catherine Tyldesley’s Comeback?
The timing of Eva’s return aligned perfectly with Tyldesley’s personal life. After spending months working abroad, she had been hoping for a role closer to home in Manchester. Her husband, Tom Pitfield, even joked about wanting her next job to be local and shortly after, the Corrie call came through.
She had previously declined offers to return due to scheduling conflicts but this time, everything fell into place.
“It worked both professionally and personally,” she said. “It just felt right.”
Her return had to be kept under wraps due to production secrecy, making it a surprise even for close friends and castmates.
What Has Eva Price Been Up to During Her Time Away?
Image – Source
Before returning to Weatherfield, Eva Price had been living a happy, settled life abroad. According to show producers and Tyldesley, Eva met a wonderful man named Ben Driscoll and built a blended family with him.
Rather than being weighed down by past trauma, Eva is said to have enjoyed a refreshing chapter in her life—free from the drama that often followed her in Corrie.
- She’s now in love and part of a supportive family unit
- Her daughter Susie has grown, and Ben has two sons of his own
- The family is described as arriving in Weatherfield with “a suitcase full of secrets”
This cheerful past provides a refreshing contrast to the character’s earlier storylines, suggesting a more grounded, mature Eva is set to return.
Who Are the New Faces Joining Eva in Weatherfield?
Catherine Tyldesley won’t be returning alone. The 2025 return of Eva Price comes with a brand-new family dynamic:
- Ben Driscoll (played by Aaron McCusker) – Eva’s partner
- Maggie Driscoll (played by Pauline McLynn) – Ben’s meddling mother
- Ben’s two sons – Part of the new blended family
- Susie Price – Eva’s daughter, now older and wiser
This new Price Driscoll clan is set to stir up excitement, bringing fresh energy and secrets to the famous cobbled street.
What’s It Like for Catherine Tyldesley to Play the New Landlady?
Becoming the landlady of the Rovers Return Inn is one of the most iconic roles in British soap history. Tyldesley admitted she feels honoured to be part of such a legacy, following in the footsteps of Corrie legends like Bet Lynch, Liz McDonald, and Jenny Connor.
“Even people who don’t watch Corrie know who Bet Lynch is. That’s the level of recognition we’re talking about,” she explained.
Eva’s unique blend of sass, vulnerability, and determination makes her the perfect modern landlady, capable of handling the drama that comes with running the pub—both behind the bar and at home.
Has Catherine Tyldesley Worked on Other Projects Since Leaving Corrie?
Yes, following her departure in 2018, Tyldesley pursued a diverse acting career and appeared in:
- BBC comedy Scarborough
- Strictly Come Dancing (2019 contestant)
- Several stage plays and dramas
- Writing and collaborative creative work, including partnerships with fellow actors
Her return to Coronation Street reflects her enduring connection to the show and the character of Eva Price.
What’s Next for Eva Price on Coronation Street?
Image – Source
While specific plotlines remain under wraps, ITV teased that Eva’s return won’t be without drama. With a blended family and a “suitcase of secrets,” the Price-Driscolls are sure to shake things up at the Rovers.
However, unlike many returning soap characters, Eva re-enters the scene from a place of emotional stability, not scandal, though that may not last for long in Weatherfield.
“They wanted a strong, loving couple at the heart of the Rovers,” said Tyldesley. “That’s what Eva and Ben are, at least for now.”
How Has the Audience Reacted to Eva Price’s Return?
Fan reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Eva Price remains a fan favourite, and her return has been met with excitement on social media and fan forums.
Many are thrilled to see a familiar face return in a powerful new role, especially one that ties into Corrie’s rich tradition of strong female characters at the helm of the pub.
A Timeline of Eva Price’s Journey on Coronation Street
| Year | Event | Details |
| 2011 | First Appearance | Introduced as Stella Price’s daughter |
| 2017 | Aidan Connor Affair | Led to the birth of Susie |
| 2018 | Departure | Moved to France with daughter |
| 2025 | Return | Becomes landlady of Rovers Return with new family |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Catherine Tyldesley really back on Coronation Street?
Yes, she has officially returned as Eva Price in October 2025, taking over as the landlady of the Rovers Return.
Why did Catherine Tyldesley decide to return now?
The timing aligned with her personal life and professional goals, allowing her to work in Manchester and take on a dream role.
Who is Eva Price’s new partner?
Eva is in a relationship with Ben Driscoll, played by Aaron McCusker. They have a blended family.
Will Eva’s return bring new drama to the Rovers?
Yes. ITV has hinted at secrets and surprises involving Eva’s new family.
What happened to Susie Price?
Susie is now older and part of the blended Price-Driscoll family returning to Weatherfield.
Who are the new characters joining the soap with Eva?
Ben Driscoll, his mother Maggie, and his two sons join Eva and Susie in returning to the cobbles.
Is Eva Price the first female Rovers landlady?
Not at all. She follows a long line of legendary women like Bet Lynch, Liz McDonald, and Jenny Connor.
Featured Image – Source
