Julie Claire Hesmondhalgh, born on 25 February 1970 in Accrington, Lancashire, England, is a highly respected British actress, narrator, writer, and activist. She trained at the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art (LAMDA) from 1988–1991, and over her 35-year career, she’s become best known for playing trailblazing and emotionally powerful roles that resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Television Career & Signature Roles
Hayley Cropper – Coronation Street (1998–2014)
Julie achieved lasting fame as Hayley Cropper, the first permanent transgender character in British soap opera history. Beginning as a short-term role in 1998, Julie’s authentic portrayal led to a 16-year tenure on Corrie, earning her numerous awards—including the 2014 National Television Award for Best Serial Drama Performance and Best Actress at the British Soap Awards.
Hayley’s journey included groundbreaking storylines like transitioning, romance with Roy Cropper, a dramatic hostage event, and ultimately her assisted suicide amid pancreatic cancer—watched by over 10 million viewers.
Post-Coronation Street: Diversifying on Screen
After leaving Corrie, Julie took on varied roles in both television and stage work:
- Cucumber (2015), Banana, Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster (won Royal Television Society award)
- Moving On, Inside No. 9 (2015)
- Happy Valley (2016) as Amanda Wadsworth
- Broadchurch series 3 (2017) as Trish Winterman
- Guest in Doctor Who (“Kerblam!” episode, 2018)
- The Trouble with Maggie Cole, The A Word (2020)
- Narrator of The Weakest Link (2021 onward)
- Latest role: Suzanne Sercombe in Mr Bates vs The Post Office (2024).
Personal Life: Family & Relationships
Is Julie Hesmondhalgh Married? Who’s Her Husband?
Yes—Julie is married to Ian Kershaw, an actor and writer. They met in the early 2000s on the set of Coronation Street, shortly after Julie joined the cast. According to The Telegraph, Julie told him during their first meeting, “I told him I was going to marry him… six weeks later, I was pregnant.”.
Children – How Many Daughters?
Julie and Ian have two daughters, born when they were approximately 15 and 12 years old in 2017 . Though she keeps family life private, she has shared that her children found her departure from Coronation Street upsetting, particularly her youngest.
Age & Net Worth
- Age: Born 25 February 1970, Julie is 55 years old as of July 2025.
- Net Worth: Estimations vary; some online profiles list figures around $5 million or £3–4 million, but these are speculative and should be treated cautiously without official confirmation.
TV Shows Featuring Julie Hesmondhalgh
Here’s a detailed list of notable TV works:
- Coronation Street (1998–2014) – Hayley Cropper
- Cucumber (2015) / Banana (2015)
- Black Roses: The Killing of Sophie Lancaster (2015)
- Moving On, Inside No. 9 (2015)
- Happy Valley (2016)
- Broadchurch (2017)
- Doctor Who – episode “Kerblam!” (2018)
- The Trouble with Maggie Cole, The A Word (2020)
- The Pact (2021)
- The Weakest Link – narrator (from 2021)
- Mr Bates vs The Post Office (2024)
Health & “Julie Hesmondhalgh Accident”
There are no public records or credible news reports indicating that Julie Hesmondhalgh has been involved in any accident. Searches for “Julie Hesmondhalgh accident” appear to be based on rumors or confusion with other individuals. Julie continues to maintain her acting and activist roles without interruption.
Awards & Stage Work
Beyond television, Julie has an impressive theatre and award portfolio:
- Royal Television Society Award (2015) for Black Roses
- Manchester Theatre Award for Wit (2017)
- Multiple National Television and British Soap Awards during her Coronation Street tenure
She has also authored A Working Diary (2019) and An Actor’s Alphabet (2023), demonstrating her creative and leadership roles beyond acting.
Activism & Charity
Julie is a passionate advocate and humanitarian:
- Labour Party supporter; backed Jeremy Corbyn in 2015/2017
- Patron of: Trans Media Watch, Maundy Relief, Sophie Lancaster Foundation, among others
- Winner on All Star Mr & Mrs (2008), raising £20,000 for Maundy Relief
- Founded 500 Acts of Kindness (2019) to support grassroots charities
Her activism was instrumental in shaping public discussions on transgender representation and healthcare policy.
FAQs About Julie Hesmondhalgh
How old is Julie Hesmondhalgh?
Julie Hesmondhalgh was born on 25 February 1970, which makes her 55 years old as of 2025.
Where does Julie Hesmondhalgh live?
ulie Hesmondhalgh currently lives in Greater Manchester, England, where she is also involved in local activism and community work.
What is Julie Hesmondhalgh best known for?
She is best known for playing Hayley Cropper on Coronation Street, one of the first transgender characters on British television.
What are some TV shows with Julie Hesmondhalgh?
Julie has appeared in Coronation Street, Broadchurch, Happy Valley, Doctor Who, The Trouble with Maggie Cole, and Mr Bates vs The Post Office among others.
What is Julie Hesmondhalgh’s net worth?
While not officially confirmed, Julie Hesmondhalgh’s estimated net worth is around £3–4 million or $5 million, based on various online sources.
Final Thoughts
Julie Hesmondhalgh is a multi-award-winning, socially engaged actress whose work has transcended television, theatre, and public activism. From her transformative role as Hayley Cropper to her community initiatives, she stands as an authentic voice in British culture—anchored by her loving family life with Ian Kershaw and their two daughters, and continuing to influence both screen and society.
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