Lisa George, known for her role as Beth Sutherland (née Tinker) on Coronation Street for 13 years, is embracing life beyond the soap opera. A year following her emotional departure from the show, she is focused on showcasing her post-soap career.
Hailing from Grimsby, Lisa has not only ventured into new projects but has also undergone a significant health transformation with a surgical procedure. Alongside pursuing two history diplomas, she has been managing a medical condition affecting her vision, causing partial blindness in one eye and the loss of peripheral vision in the other.
Diagnosed with NAION (non-arteritic anterior ischemic optic neuropathy) after years of uncertainty since her initial sight impairment in 2016 and a recurrence in 2022, Lisa shares insights on her coping mechanisms and determination to push forward despite the challenges.
How have things been for you post-Coronation Street?
My schedule has been packed with various activities that I find fulfilling. Recently, I had the honor of presenting an award at the National Diversity Awards and engaging with remarkable individuals. Additionally, I have taken on a Board Member role at Acting Lincs in Lincolnshire, facilitating connections within the local entertainment industry. Geographical location should not limit one’s aspirations.
Having more freedom to explore opportunities must be refreshing for you now…
Absolutely, it’s liberating. There are numerous ambitions I aim to pursue, including a desire to participate in a period drama. My fascination with historical eras, particularly the World War II period, stems from my profound conversations with my grandfather. The 50s and 60s also captivate me, making any project set in that era immensely appealing. Historical subjects intrigue me, evident from my coursework during lockdown on Tudor history, Henry VIII’s wives, and Native American studies.
Transitioning after an extended stint on a soap opera can’t be easy, can it?
While many may associate me with the character Beth, I view myself as versatile beyond that role. Prior to Coronation Street, I engaged in various television projects and now seek diverse opportunities. Rekindling my passion for singing and potentially returning to the recording studio excites me. Despite halting my singing during my time on Corrie, I previously taught and performed with a prominent band.
Your advocacy for vision-related challenges is commendable. How are you managing your eye condition presently?
I feel that my eyes have stabilized currently. While my distant vision remains unaffected, I struggle with reading as all texts appear blurred. For reading, I rely on glasses, and for driving, I use varifocals to view the SatNav. Night driving poses challenges due to blind spots, which may partly be attributed to aging. During Corrie shoots in dimly lit settings, I preferred positions
