Coronation Street icon Tracy Shaw discloses breast cancer diagnosis

Beloved Coronation Street icon Tracy Shaw has shared the challenging news of her breast cancer diagnosis.

The actress, widely recognised for her role as Maxine Peacock in the series, took to Instagram this evening to announce her situation and inform her followers that she will soon commence five months of chemotherapy, possibly followed by surgery.

“Sending love to all those experiencing this journey, eager to connect with many of you, especially the remarkable survivors.”

The actress mentioned she was scheduled for surgery in the coming two weeks, but the specialists at the Royal Berkshire Hospital advised a chemotherapy regimen after finding HER2 in her cells during tests.

HER2 is a protein that accelerates cancer cell growth, often present in more aggressive cancer cases.

She explained that once chemotherapy is completed, she aspires to have surgery to excise the tumors and some lymph nodes for further evaluation, possibly needing additional surgery before commencing radiotherapy.

Samia Longchambon expressed: “Sending hugs your way, Tracy.”

Sally Ann Matthews said: “Thinking of you, dear friend x.”

An admirer wrote: “Such a courageous and commendable post. Wishing you strength and love.”

Tracy shared that she follows a daily 12-step routine and revealed her recovery from numerous dependencies, including anorexia, bulimia, alcoholism, and substance abuse.

She expressed gratitude to her many friends from support groups worldwide for their encouragement.

Tracy, famously portraying Maxine Peacock, captured in 1995 Credit: News UK Ltd

The actress admitted facing challenges with hair loss due to cancer, but mentioned: “I am genuinely thankful for this chance to hopefully attain a cancer-free life as well.”

Additionally, she conveyed appreciation for the well-wishes and support from her fans during her social media hiatus for Lent, focusing more on being present.

Nonetheless, she crossed her friend by a fleeting encounter with Fiona’s partner – Steve MacDonald.

A year following her first TV appearance, she was honored as Rear of the Year.

In the storyline, Maxine wed butcher Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold), and together they had a son named Joshua.

She also became the mother of a child with the local doctor – despite her marriage to Ashley.

Her storyline concluded with her tragic end at the hands of Richard Hillman.

The character suffered a fatal blow from a crowbar after a night out.

In reality, Tracy ventured into music in 1998, releasing two singles.

These included Ridin’ High and a rendition of Lonnie Gordon’s Happenin’ All Over Again.

Post-soap, she engaged in minor parts within ITV dramas, though her career predominantly focused on theater.

She starred alongside Jason Connery in the theatrical piece The Blue Room in 2003.

The performance required her to appear nude on stage – while also performing as various female characters in the show.