Writers had struggled with the character of Ivy Brennan for a number of years, leading to Ivy being led down, according to Carolyn Reynolds, "very narrow routes in terms of stories" (The Coronation Street Story, 1995). In consideration of Lynne Perrie's personal issues, including a drinking problem, Reynolds decided to dismiss Perrie from her role after 23 years. Tabloids speculated that the true reason for the sacking was that the producers were angered when Perrie dramatically changed her appearance with cosmetic surgery, getting collagen implants to create fuller lips. However, in contemporary and subsequent interviews Perrie and Reynolds denied this was a factor in her dismissal. Ivy wasn't given an exit, and left Weatherfield for a religious retreat four months after her last appearan