The star's husband David Beckett confirmed that she passed away at a Manchester Hospital on Sunday, January 19 following a short illness.
The actress, who played Deirdre Barlow for 43 years, announced in September she was taking a three month break from the show.
She was expected to make her long-awaited return to Coronation Street this month.
Anne was previously diagnosed with Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 1993, but following successful treatment returned to the soap within 12 months.
Speaking in 2001, Anne revealed the diagnosis brought in its wake a lengthy battle with depression that made her life ‘unbearable’ over the years that followed.
The actress was originally granted an eight-week break from the show back in September, however, after enjoying some time off she then requested a further three months additional leave while she dealt with ‘personal issues’.
Anne has played Deirdre since 1972.
Posted: Mon Jan 19, 2015 10:41 pm