Jonathan Howard joined the Coronation Street cobblestones recently, stirring up drama as Carl Webster, Kevin and Debbie’s little brother. He has already caused chaos with Kevin’s wife, Abi, but in the background scene, the actor is enjoying a full-circle experience close to twenty years in the making.
Coronation Street: A Missed Opportunity Nearly Two Decades Ago
Years before he landed the part of Carl, Howard had Weatherfield in his sights. In 2008, he auditioned for Gary Windass and made it to the final rounds. The part eventually went to Mikey North, and Howard opted instead to go to drama school.
He remembered how hard it was to believe the rejection at the time. “I do recall going for the screen test and being utterly disappointed not to get it,” he confessed.
But in retrospect, he thinks the decision came about for a reason.
The actor explained how he would not have had the opportunity to establish a career in America if he had been given the role of Gary Windass.
Most significantly, he would not have met his wife, whom he got to know when he was at drama school.
He said, “It feels now like it’s all come full circle.”
Carl’s Complicated Arrival in Weatherfield
Since his on-screen introduction, Howard’s character has had run-ins with Abi, creating tensions in the Webster home.
Although fans are already guessing at a potential affair, Howard mentions that Carl is not a villain. He characterized Carl as a “charmer who knows how to work people,” but clarified that his motives aren’t sinister. He also added that Carl doesn’t owe a great sense of duty to Kevin, considering that they don’t share a common past. The rest of the story unfolds in a way that is worth watching on Coronation Street. We will keep you posted on Soap Opera Daily. Stay tuned!