Few names in British television are as deeply rooted in its cultural fabric as Coronation Street’s Ken Barlow. Bill has been a familiar face on our televisions for more than six decades, leading us through generations of Weatherfield drama.
But though he was just honoured with a tremendous accolade marking his enduring commitment, what fans most want to know is: what’s the future for Ken?
A Career Worthy of the Record Books
Last week, William Roache was awarded a lifetime achievement award at the high-profile Entertainment Agents’ Awards.
The award honored his outstanding contribution to British entertainment – a career that has involved him playing Ken Barlow since Coronation Street’s first episode in 1960.
The 92-year-old actor has a Guinness World Record as the world’s longest-serving TV soap star. In accepting the award, Roache was full of thanks.
He said it was an immense privilege to be honored and looked back on what he described as a “wonderful career.” The actor reminisced about his extended stay on Coronation Street, saying the experience was “magical.”
Coronation Street: Claire Speaks Up About Co-Star
Claire Sweeney, who currently appears in the soap as Cassie Plummer, handed out the award. Reflecting on the moment, Claire said she was fortunate to have had the opportunity to work with Roache.
She described him as a legend and someone who is part of the very fabric of British television. She said Bill was incredibly astute, never forgetting a line, and always seemed to be one step ahead.
Claire’s recent plotline with Roache was dramatic and intense. Her character, Cassie, had been employed as Ken’s carer but was threatened with losing that job when Ken told her he no longer required her services.
Not willing to give up the companionship or the pay packet, Cassie turned to secretly drugging Ken with antihistamines to keep him reliant on her.
Ken started falling ill over and over again, but it wasn’t until the truth about what had really happened to him emerged.
The community was against Cassie. Although she got caught out on her manipulation, Ken—being Ken—didn’t call the police.
Ken Barlow Isn’t Going Anywhere – And Neither Is Bill
In the midst of the celebration and the accolades, Roache addressed the question on fans’ minds—is he going to leave Coronation Street anytime soon?
Reassuring the audience, the seasoned actor revealed that he’s still having a good time and has no intention of departing. He discussed his tremendous pleasure working with “incredible actors” over the years.
Bill also indicated that he’s eager to be a part of the show for many more years to come. We hope the same for our Ken. For more such Coronation Street updtaes, keep following Soap Opera Daily. Stay tuned!
Congratulations Ken. I have watched coronation Street since I was about 17 yrs old. I am 73 yrs old now and am still watching today. By far my all time favourite show.