Coronation Street legend Tracy Shaw’s heartbreaking cancer battle as she issues update
The beloved actress played Maxine Peacock on Coronation Street and announced her cancer news last month
Coronation Street legend Tracy Shaw’s heartbreaking cancer battle as she issues update(Image: Granada Television)
Coronation Street’s Tracy Shaw revealed her cancer diagnosis last month and has been keeping fans updated since.
Tracy, 52, shot to fame playing hairdresser Maxine Peacock on the long-running programme – making her debut in 1995. As the wife of butcher Ashley (Steven Arnold), Maxine was a firm favourite on the famous cobbles.
During her stint, she was involved in several dramatic storylines, including her one-night stand with Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson). She also had a baby with the local doctor – despite being married to Ashley.
However in 2003 her time on the show came to an end when she was brutally killed by cobbles baddie Richard Hillman (Brian Capron). After returning home from the pub, she was struck with a crowbar by Richard in iconic scenes.
Keeping herself busy, following her soap exit, Tracy has appeared on TV screens a few times, starring in Casualty and Doctors. She also recently had a role in the 2025 musical drama, Finding My Voice.
However, in April, Tracy revealed the sad news that she had been diagnosed with cancer. She took to social media and told fans she is due to start chemotherapy which will last for five month before having surgery.
Speaking in the video she said: “I have come on just to explain a situation that is happening in my life. I have been diagnosed with breast cancer. I have to have chemo for five months, then hopefully surgery to have lumps removed and take the nymph glands out. Thank you for messaging me to check how I am because I haven’t been present.”
Tracy wrote alongside a video: “My diagnosis of breast cancer. So the journey begins… Love to everyone who is also going through this journey, looking forward to hearing from you all, especially you amazing survivors.” She added hashtags for “women supporting women” and “breast cancer”.
A month later, Tracy revealed she had started her treatment. She said on social media: “Just come out from having the radiation put in, put in me, basically. Got to stay away from pregnant ladies and young children, and don’t use public toilets.
She then shared that her faith has been helping her through this tough time. Tracy said: “I’ve just been so positive all day. I haven’t really come on and spoke about my faith before and how important it is to me and how getting up early and praying and having my meditation and doing my rituals every day is vital for how I react to life and the things and situations.”
And just week, Tracy shared a cancer update as she praised the ‘gift of life’ in a reflective post. The soap star uploaded a video montage of herself outdoors as well as selfies.
“Life is a gift. Inbetween hospital appointments I embrace nature for peace. Time to reflect, unwind and breathe,” Tracy penned. She added: “Thank you for all your wonderful messages of support. Back to hospital tomorrow. Will know then chemo start date ! All will be well.”
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX
