ITV Coronation Street fans say 'she's a star' as they all issue same demand

Daily Mirror

17-07-2025

Coronation Street viewers have been left in awe of the acting skills of one of the soap's youngest cast members, as they called for the character to be given a bigger role
Coronation Street fans are singing the praises of a 'star' performer following the ITV show's latest gripping scenes, where Mick Michaelis masterminded a daring prison escape, leading to an outpouring of support for the actress. The character made his first appearance on the cobbles in February, chasing after his wife, Lou Michaelis, as they set up their new life on the street.
Dubbed the fresh "nightmare neighbours" by fans, the couple were not shy about causing a stir, and they certainly lived up to that reputation during their brief time on the cobbles, just behind Gemma and Chesney Winter-Brown's place. More recently, Corrie has been dropping hints about the villain's comeback, following his arrest in May's episodes for the cold-blooded murder of the innocent PC Craig Tinker in a fit of drunken anger.
In a turn of events that unfolded on Monday (July 14), Mick managed to break free from prison and was plotting to flee with Lou and their kids - Brody, Joanie, and Shanice, reports the Manchester Evening News.
With nothing left to lose, the desperate criminal was a threat to anyone who crossed his path. His initial stop was Weatherfield High, but upon discovering that his daughter Joanie had been taken home from school by Sally Metcalfe (Sally Dynevor), he made a beeline for the cobbles.
In league with Brody, the teenager alerted him to his daughter Joanie's presence at Weatherfield High, where she was having a trial day and being bullied by other children. He promptly arrived at the school.
However, Sally Metcalfe had already collected Joanie after the young girl was upset by cruel comments about her parents, given that Lou is now also incarcerated for her assault on Gary Windass.
Daniel and Mrs Crawshaw were taken aback when they encountered Mick, who demanded they hand over Joanie. A frightened Mrs Crawshaw informed Mick that Joanie had already been collected, but he didn't believe her, leading to a struggle over the phone.
After locking Mrs Crawshaw and Daniel in the office, Mick made his way to the street, where Sally was introducing Joanie to Underworld. DC Kit Green, aware of Mick's escape, was hot on his trail and spotted his old friend heading towards the factory.
Mick took Tim Metcalfe and Sarah Platt hostage in the office, and as Kit followed, tensions escalated between the adversaries when Mick realised that Sally had smuggled Joanie onto the roof in an attempt to flee.
Sally was seen comforting the young girl amidst the chaos unfolding below in the factory, with Mick stabbing Kit and leaving him fighting for his life as he ascended to the roof, where Sally was able to calmly confront him with some hard truths.
Sally's heartfelt promise to Mick to care for Joanie and Shanice, ensuring a brighter future for the girls as he surrendered to the police, marked a poignant moment in the show.
The performance of the actors, especially newcomer Savanna Pennington who portrays Joanie, has been met with widespread acclaim, particularly considering her recent on-screen debut.
One Reddit user was quick to express admiration: "Wow can i just say Joanie Michaelis acting tonight was amazing. Her first real appearance in the show and she done very well. Her ability to use her eyes to tell a story is great really looking forward to seeing her in the future!"
Another viewer said: "It a shame she missed out for being nominated for the Inside Soap awards as she wasn't really developed as a character on time, however hopefully she wins plenty of awards in the future as she is a star!" while a different account added: "Absolutely agree. I hope she stays with Sally. She's got great promise. Sally was superb tonight too."
Over on X (formerly known as Twitter), a different account put: "I'll be the one to say Joanie aka Savanna Pennington put on an impressive performance tonight for someone young and her first dramatic scenes on the show! #Corrie."
Meanwhile another user added: "Savanna Pennington who plays Joanie Michaelis is a brilliant young actress. They couldn't have paired her with anyone better than Sally Dynevor. Beautiful scenes between them tonight and hopefully more to come. #Corrie."
Savanna, the young actress behind Joanie, took to Instagram to share some exclusive behind-the-scenes snaps, inviting fans to "Swipe for some behind the scenes."
She added: "One of my favourite episodes yet! .. not bias. Thank you to all amazing cast and crew @coronationstreet for making it so much fun! Even though it may not look like I was having much fun I really was @thedramamob."
Sydney Martin, known for her role as Betsy Swain in Corrie, didn't hold back her admiration, commenting: "You smashed it sweetheart! Very talented! !"