Coronation Street has seen plenty of cast changes over the years, but one star has remained part of Weatherfield since the very beginning.
Now, after more than six decades as Ken Barlow, Bill Roache is reportedly getting a surprise programme of his own to celebrate a record few television actors could ever match. Dive in for more details.
Bill Roache Is Reportedly Getting His Own ITV Special
Bill Roache is set to be celebrated in a special ITV programme titled Bill Roache: Life on the Street. The programme is expected to air either later in 2026 or in early 2027, giving viewers a closer look at his extraordinary time on Coronation Street.
Roache turned 94 this year and has played Ken Barlow since the soap’s first episode in 1960. His 66-year run has earned him the Guinness World Record for the longest-serving television star in a continuous role.
According to The Sun, the special will celebrate Roache’s remarkable career in Weatherfield. Viewers can expect to see various scenes and memories from his decades on the cobbles as the programme highlights the unique achievement behind his record-breaking run.
Coronation Street Boss Says Bill Roache Can Stay As Long As He Wants
Back in January, Coronation Street boss Iain MacLeod made it clear that Roache would never be written out while he remains alive and wants to keep working.
He said: “William Roache has been in the show since episode one. William has a job for as long as he wants it, absolutely.
“It would be a brave producer [who takes] the decision to axe him. William [is] a miraculous individual. Whatever you give him, even now, he’s on point, he’s on his dialogue… He’s the most professional member of the cast. I don’t think anyone could dispute that.”
Roache has not always been certain about staying on the soap. He previously revealed that he nearly walked away around 20 years into his run after becoming “restless” and feeling Ken had grown too “nerdy”. A major storyline eventually changed his mind and gave the character fresh life. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Coronation Street spoilers and behind-the-scenes updates.