Coronation Street star pays tribute after one of soap’s first cast members dies

Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon has shared her real-life connection to one of the long-running show’s first-ever cast members following news of their sad death.

It was announced on Thursday (May 14) that Alan Rothwell, best known for playing David Barlow in the original cast of the ITV soap, had died aged 89.

The English actor starred on the soap as the brother of Ken Barlow, played by William ‘Bill’ Roache, when it first launched in 1960 until 1969. He died “peacefully in hospital following a short illness” on Thursday.

A family statement shared with the Press Association read: “Alan was a professional radio, television, film and stage actor and director whose career spanned more than 70 years. Alan died peacefully in hospital following a short illness.

“Beyond his professional achievements, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many people whose lives he touched through his work.”

Following the news, Corrie also shared its own tribute. A spokesperson said: “We’re very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell’s passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this very sad time. He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members of Coronation Street.”

The statement was also shared on social media and in response, Samia, who currently plays Weatherfield’s Maria Windass, shared her own personal connection to the late actor. She revealed: “So sad to hear this. Alan was a also drama teacher at our drama school and I have such fond memories of being taught by him.. he was a wonderful man.”

Born in Oldham in 1937, Rothwell was a prolific actor in the 1960s, appearing in TV series such as Gideon’s Way and The Villains. His role on Coronation Street was written with him in mind as the creator Tony Warren had worked with him during their childhoods on BBC Radio’s Children’s Hour.

Bill Roache also paid tribute to the actor, saying: “I am very sorry to hear of Alan’s passing. He and I worked together on the very first episodes of Coronation Street, which was such a wonderful time, I got to know him well over the years, he was a very good actor and a delightful man. I send my thoughts and condolences to his family.”