James Nelson-Joyce’s fiancée arrived on the cobbles as Jodie
Olivia Frances Brown with her fiancé James Nelson-Joyce(Image: Instagram/Olivia Frances Brown)
James Nelson-Joyce has sent a supportive message to his fiancée who recently joined Coronation Street. The Liverpool-born actor enjoyed a year to remember in 2025 with his scene-stealing performance in A Thousand Blows before he proved his leading man credentials in This City Is Ours.
But fans might not be aware that his long-term partner Olivia Frances Brown is also a successful name in the industry. Olivia made her soap debut during one of the most iconic nights of television last week.
The worlds of Coronation Street and Emmerdale collided in a one-hour special broadcast, dubbed “Corriedale”. It was during this time that Olivia’s character Jodie was introduced to fans.
A woman could be seen travelling in the back of van as a hostage. Taking to social media during the episode, fans asked: “Who was that tied up in the vehicle?” The mystery newcomer was listed in the Corriedale cast list as a character called “Jodie”.
Viewers wondered who Jodie could be, until they spotted a familiar-looking tattoo which matched the one Shona Platt has on her back. It has since been confirmed that Jodie is Shona’s long-lost sister and is keen to get to know her and the rest of the Platts.
Jodie arrived on the cobbles and revealed she was Shona Platt’s sister(Image: ITV)
Meanwhile, James Nelson-Joyce, 36, has re-shared a post on Instagram to show his support for his partner. The post showcases Olivia in character as Jodie, and James added two red love heart emojis.
Olivia is also active on social media and has been updating her followers on her time on the cobbles. The star has been sharing updates from set after having to keep her role a secret for the past few months.
In a recent post on social media, Olivia informed her followers she is back at Media City UK filming. She posted a mirror selfie from the dressing room as she said: “And we’re back … only this time it’s no longer a secret.”
The actress also re-shared a photo of Shona Platt’s matching tattoo, as she added a mysterious eyes emoji.
Fans may recognise Olivia from her roles in TV series Boiling Point, as well as thriller The Gathering. She is also a jazz singer, known for her debut single “Shade of Red”. She also performs in and around the city, singing jazz in the Petit Cafe in Liverpool.
She has racked up 19,300 followers on Instagram, with many fans engaging in her regular posts. Her profile reads: “Probably singing jazz standards somewhere.”
Away from the screen, Olivia and James have been in a happy relationship for a number of years. Olivia often shares aspects of their life together, from stunning holiday snaps to a gorgeous photo alongside her partner on Christmas Day.
She captioned the post: “Merry Xmas from JNJ & OFB.” It was liked by thousands, as well as many recognisable names including Claire Sweeney, Lucy Fallon (Bethany Platt), Andy Whyment (Kirk Sutherland) and Julia Goulding (Shona Platt).
Coronation Street airs on ITV1 and ITVX