Roy Cropper has long been one of Coronation Street most low-key lovable characters. Since he first appeared in 1995 as Deirdre Barlow’s neighbour, Roy’s calm manner, thoughtful ways, and deep loyalty have made him a favourite among viewers. Through the years, he’s had more than his fair share of highs and lows, but something does seem to be shifting lately.
Coronation Street: Julie’s Return Ignites Something New
Roy’s most tear-jerking chapter was undoubtedly his relationship with Hayley. Their relationship was strong, tender, and heart-wrenching.
That made it all the more heartbreaking when Hayley was diagnosed with terminal pancreatic cancer.
Long-term viewers will recall the dramatic scenes in which she chose to die on her own terms—dying in Roy’s arms after ingesting a cocktail of drugs in 2014.
Since then, Roy’s kept to himself. He’s never really looked for love again.
But viewers think that might be about to change—and it all starts with a familiar face coming back to Weatherfield.
As a part of Eileen Grimshaw’s soon-to-be departure from the Street, her sister Julie Carp has returned, nine years after she was last spotted on screen.
But a far-from-happy reason for her return has been revealed.
It’s been confirmed that Julie has a terminal cancer diagnosis, and unfortunately, she isn’t expected to survive.
Not wanting to see time go to waste, Julie and her family organized a fundraiser to get her to tick off activities on her bucket list.
Far from waiting around, she decided to spend some of it on a holiday to the Lake District.
A New Spark?
Back home, things took a lighter turn when Brian Packham asked her out for a meal at Roy’s café.
There seemed to be a gentle spark between them, but the date didn’t quite go to plan.
Brian had to rush off suddenly due to an urgent situation at The Kabin, leaving Julie sitting alone.
That’s where she ended up having an impromptu chat with Roy.
Having him seated across the table from her, she spoke about her cancer, how she was managing, and what she was going through.
Roy then recounted his own recollections of Hayley and what they shared as a couple. It was a hushed, emotional conversation, brimming with compassion and empathy.
Coronation Street: Fans Believe Roy Could Be Prepared to Love Once More
The moment didn’t go unnoticed. In fact, it got people talking.
Fans quickly took to Coronation Street Facebook groups to share their thoughts.
One fan wrote, “Julie and Roy? I ship them.”
Another added, “100%,” and a third said, “He deserves to find love again!”
So far, there’s no word of official romance between Roy and Julie—but there’s definitely some chemistry.
With Julie’s time on the Street limited due to her terminal illness, audiences are wondering if a gentle romance, at least a strong friendship, can develop between them in the time she has remaining.
After over a decade of existing in Hayley’s memory, perhaps Roy is finally ready to let someone back in.
Whether or not this becomes love, fans appear eager for Roy to have somebody to share his life with—even if it’s for only a short time. We will keep you posted on this on Soap Opera Daily. Stay tuned!
