Sue Cleaver, best known for her 25-year portrayal of Eileen Grimshaw on ITV’s Coronation Street, has spoken openly about her life after departing the iconic soap. The 61-year-old actress recently bid farewell to the cobbles in scenes that saw her character travel to Thailand to be with her son Jason.
Seeking new challenges, Sue explained in an interview with the Mirror how turning 60 inspired her to embrace change and pursue fresh opportunities. “The door is still firmly open but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures and live fearlessly,” she said.
Looking ahead, Sue is set to star in the stage production Snake in the Grass at Theatr Clwyd and the Octagon Theatre Bolton this autumn, signaling an exciting new chapter in her career.
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Alongside her professional updates, Sue also shared a heartfelt health message with her Instagram followers. Living with Type 2 diabetes for nearly three decades, she discussed the daily mental and emotional challenges the condition brings. “Life with Type 2 diabetes comes with constant decisions, mental load, and emotional noise. The effort and stress that used to go into meal planning and other daily activities was overwhelming,” she revealed.
However, Sue credits the use of her Dexcom continuous glucose monitor (CGM) for helping her manage the condition more effectively. The device provides automatic glucose readings, allowing her to better understand the impact of food, drink, and exercise. “That noise has quietened down,” she said. “It takes a weight off my mind and helps me enjoy life beyond diabetes.”
In support of Diabetes Awareness Week, Sue is partnering with Dexcom to encourage others to #DialDowntheNoise, shedding light on the realities of living with diabetes. Through her openness, she continues to inspire fans, emphasizing that while diabetes is part of her life, it does not define her.