Malcolm Hebden, renowned for his portrayal of Norris Cole in the long-running soap opera “Coronation Street,” has left a lasting mark on the show’s viewers. Hebden first graced the screens as Norris in 1994, becoming a fixture on the ITV series for over 27 years and appearing in more than 1,600 episodes.
In a significant turn of events, Hebden announced his retirement from acting in January 2021 following a health scare involving a heart attack in 2017. The decision to step back from the limelight came after the character of Norris was written off the show, with his storyline culminating in a tragic demise off-screen.
Prior to his iconic role as Norris, Hebden had a stint on “Coronation Street” in the 1970s, playing the character Carlos, the Spanish boyfriend of Mavis Riley. His return to the show in 1994 marked the beginning of his memorable portrayal of the beloved busybody Norris, earning him accolades such as Funniest Character at the Inside Soap Awards in 2001 and 2002.
Hebden’s character was involved in several notable storylines, including his relationships with Mary Taylor and his ongoing disputes with Emily Bishop, showcasing his knack for portraying the nosy yet endearing character of Norris.
Following his health scare in 2017, Hebden took a break from the show but made a brief return in 2019 before bidding farewell to the cobbles for the last time in 2020. His health journey was documented as he underwent a groundbreaking procedure to repair the damage caused by the heart attack.
In January 2021, at the age of 81, Hebden officially announced his retirement, expressing his fondness for playing Norris and the courage it took to make the decision to step away from acting. Despite his retirement, Hebden has made appearances in special events like the documentary celebrating Barbara Knox’s 90th birthday and supporting former co-star Sam Aston during his stint on “Dancing on Ice” in 2025.
Hebden’s legacy on “Coronation Street” remains cherished by fans, with his endearing portrayal of Norris Cole leaving an indelible mark on the show’s history.