Coronation Street star Shelley King, known for her role as Yasmeen, recently opened up about her incredible journey of self-discovery and acceptance. From struggling with societal labels, the actress’s story is one of resilience and courage. At 42, she finally found the strength to ‘come out’ to her parents. Now, she shares her message of hope and empowerment for those considering coming out. Read on to know more!
Coronation Street Actress Shelley King Shares Her Inspiring Journey
Shelley King, popularly known for her role as Yasmeen in Coronation Street, reflects on her journey of self-discovery and acceptance. She recalls being labeled a tomboy as a child, which she initially accepted. However, as she approached adolescence, she realized that this term didn’t fully capture her identity.
As she grew up, the actress felt anger toward herself and the world around her. She admits, “ I felt ashamed and disgusted with myself.” In her twenties, Shelley delved into literature, theater, and movies portraying women attracted to other women. However, the early 1970s lacked happy endings in such narratives.
Turning to history, the Coronation Street star found little comfort. Additionally, cultural secrecy surrounding lesbianism was made worse by existing views, such as Queen Victoria’s denial of lesbian existence. Later, Shelley confided in her school friends, though they offered no solutions.
The actress reveals that despite their bohemian circle, discussions about lesbianism remained taboo. At drama school, the soap star found herself befriending a gay man, but she couldn’t seem to connect with any gay women. She even attempted relationships with straight men, but they always ended in heartbreak.
With time, the Coronation Street legend developed crushes on women who couldn’t reciprocate her feelings. Though she confessed her sexuality to her closest friends, they, too, were at a loss for solutions. According to the star, while many gay women preferred secrecy, Shelley longed to embrace her identity openly.
Another Corrie Member Recalls ‘Coming Out’ To Soap Icon
King recalls having a small flat near Kings Road in London. One night, she decided to visit the famous lesbian club Gateways. However, she was denied entry because they doubted her sexuality. But she didn’t give up. Eventually, she found a community of other lesbians and entered into a long-term relationship.
Though it ended, they remained close friends. Her second relationship was peaceful, but it didn’t last. Throughout these ups and downs, the Coronation Street cast’s parents hoped she’d find a nice man. Then, she met Trilby and ended up finding her soulmate in her.
At 42, Shelley finally told her parents about her relationship, and to her surprise, they weren’t shocked at all. Luckily, they embraced her and her partner with love. Now, she wants everyone thinking about coming out to be true to themselves. She expressed, “Whatever the circumstance, the people who really love you will support you.”
Meanwhile, another Coronation Street member spills their emotional coming-out story. Daran Little, the soap writer, recalls sharing his big secret with soap icon Helen Worth. This comes after the actress declares her decision to quit the show. He posts on Twitter (X), “Want to know how wonderful Helen Worth is?”
He added, “She was the first person I came out to, sitting in tears in her dressing room. She held me tight and said ‘your adventures are just beginning.’ Wishing her all my love on her next adventure.” Undoubtedly, Hele is a legendary actress and a one-of-a-kind human. For more such Coronation Street updates, keep checking TV Season & Spoilers!
