Coronation Street legend Jack James Ryan has revealed he secretly battled cancer in the past.
The 24-year-old actor, who plays Jacob in the long-running ITV soap, made the devastating revelation after his former co-star Victoria Ekanoye recently opened up about having breast cancer.
Opening up about his hidden health scare, Jack said he suffered with testicular cancer in 2017, but he went on to make a full recovery.
Victoria, who played Angie Appleton from 2017 to 2019, was congratulating Jack for his second stint on the show, when he delved into his own experience with the disease.
He told her: "Thanks so much Victoria, I think you're class.
"Been so inspired by you opening up about your cancer journey and I'm sending you all the love and positive vibes.
"Had my own run in with it a few years back. You've got this. Big love! x"
In response, Victoria said: "Thanks JJ. I won't lie, it's one hell of a slog, but my family and friends, all the messages of support…feels like I have my own little army.
"I had no idea you battled the big C…what a warrior. And now you're smashing it on our beloved @itvcorrie. Much love and respect x."
Victoria, who welcomed her first child in March with partner Jonny, discovered she had breast cancer through breast feeding.
She was feeding son Theo when she noticed a small lump protruding at the top of her left breast.
The mum-of-one is determined to beat the disease for her baby son.
The actress feared she would not be around for him, but doctors believe a double mastectomy will cure her because the cancer was discovered so early.
Victoria told OK! Magazine: "My mum had breast cancer at 41, and her sister at 39 - so many people in my family, in fact. So I don't really leave any time before I check these things."
She went on: "I was diagnosed on the thirteenth of October with DCIS, which is Ductal carcinoma in situ.
"It basically means that cells have turned cancerous within the milk ducts."
The star added: "We're being really optimistic, and positive, and really lucky that we've caught it as early as we have.
"I don't know if lucky is the right word, but that's how I feel."
