A young girl from the north, Shirley Broadbent, took her first steps on the stairs of London’s Theatre Royal Drury Lane just three years after the end of World War II. With aspirations to pursue acting, she prayed for the opportunity to perform on stage. Over the years, she defied age restrictions to land a role in a pantomime and later found love within the same theatre. Fast forward to the present, Amanda Barrie, as she’s now known, is gearing up to celebrate her 90th birthday at the same venue where her journey began.
Despite facing significant health challenges, Amanda remains positive and grateful. She recently underwent two major surgeries within six months, including a heart valve replacement and a hip replacement. Her resilience and humor shine through as she shares her experiences in the operating theaters. Reflecting on her life and career, Amanda’s upcoming birthday serves as a milestone worth celebrating.
Known for her iconic roles in Coronation Street and Bad Girls, Amanda’s journey has been filled with adventures and challenges. From her eventful early years to her successful acting career, she has lived a life full of stories and memories. As she approaches her 90th birthday, Amanda embraces her past experiences with grace and humor, looking forward to the future.
Amanda’s life story, captured in her autobiography “Amanda Barrie: I’m Still Here,” chronicles her remarkable journey through the years. Her resilience, wit, and unwavering spirit shine through as she continues to inspire others with her zest for life. As she looks ahead to the future, Amanda’s only ambition is to keep moving forward and appreciating each moment.


