Cherylee Houston

Career

Houston has played the role of Izzy Armstrong since 2010 on the long-running ITV soap opera Coronation Street, a part that has made her a familiar face to national audiences. Alongside her television work she performs for radio: she plays Maz in the BBC Radio 4 series Tinsel Girl. Her work encompasses both dramatic and lighter material, and she has been involved in ensemble productions as well as projects that centre on lived experience.

Health and advocacy

At 23 Houston was diagnosed with Ehlers–Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type (Type III), a group of connective tissue conditions that commonly affect joints and cause chronic pain and instability. She uses a wheelchair for mobility. Houston has used her public profile to highlight issues of access, inclusion and realistic portrayal of disability on screen and stage.

Notable roles and impact

Her portrayal of Izzy Armstrong has been important for increasing representation of disabled characters in soap storytelling and mainstream drama. Appointed an MBE, Houston is cited in public discussion for both her artistic contributions and her role in campaigning for better opportunities and working conditions for disabled artists.

• Coronation Street — Izzy Armstrong (Coronation Street)
• Tinsel Girl — Maz (BBC Radio 4)

Her career illustrates how long-running television roles and radio drama can combine with public advocacy to broaden cultural understanding of disability. For further local connections and career details see resources linked to her birthplace and broadcasters above.