Next week on Coronation Street, familiar chaos and warmth return to Weatherfield as Bernie Winter finally makes her way back home – but her return sparks more than just happy reunions.

The episode opens with Bernie bursting through the door, arms wide and grin plastered across her face as she announces, “The Happy Wonder has returned!” Her loved ones greet her with relief and excitement, though it doesn’t take long for old habits and Bernie’s quirky ways to shine through. She’s quick to hand over a gift – a bag of “healing crystals” she insists will protect Asha Alahan while she’s out on her ambulance shifts. Asha smiles politely, but her skepticism is clear. As ever, Bernie doubles down, defending her spiritual beliefs with a mix of humour and stubborn pride.

The family dynamic is as lively as ever. Dev, amused by Bernie’s antics, suggests booking a table at Speed Daal for them all to catch up. While the idea of a proper meal out appeals to everyone – especially after weeks of living off pot noodles – Bernie gracefully bows out. She insists the younger ones enjoy some time together, retreating for an “early night” with her crystals. But viewers know Bernie well enough to realise this is just the calm before the storm.

Meanwhile, Ryan drops by looking for extra staff to help with a careers fair event at a local hotel. Offering £20 an hour, it seems like easy money, but both Bernie and Dev politely decline, each too tied up with their own commitments. Ryan leaves disappointed, though hints that the job could provide unexpected opportunities for someone else in Weatherfield. His visit plants the seed of a potential new twist.

Later, Bernie and Dev talk more privately about Asha. While she insists everything is fine, Dev notices his daughter seems withdrawn, spending too much time alone in her room. Bernie brushes it off at first, but concern lingers. When she later approaches Asha directly, it becomes clear that something is troubling her. Asha shrugs off questions, snapping that she’s “skint” and uninterested in going out. But Bernie gently nudges her, mentioning Ryan’s job offer again as a way of giving Asha both distraction and purpose.

Though reluctant, Asha doesn’t dismiss the idea completely – and this small moment hints at bigger developments ahead. But Bernie can’t shake the feeling her stepdaughter is quietly struggling, particularly after whispers about Summer and tensions in her personal life.

As the episode closes, Bernie, ever the protective matriarch, promises to “keep an eye on her” even if Asha insists she’s fine. Her return brings a fresh wave of warmth, humour, and chaotic energy into the household, but it also sets the stage for deeper emotional storylines. With Asha hiding her worries, Ryan juggling secret plans, and Bernie back in the mix with her trademark meddling, it’s clear that Weatherfield’s calm won’t last long.

Coming up on Coronation Street: Will Bernie’s protective instincts uncover Asha’s hidden troubles? Can Asha find strength to open up, or will she bury her pain even deeper? And will Ryan’s careers fair gig turn out to be more dramatic than anyone expects? One thing’s certain – Bernie’s return means Weatherfield is about to get lively again.