Coronation Street star Chris Gascoyne has unintentionally whipped fans up into a frenzy as his new role away from the ITV soap was revealed. The actor is famed for playing Peter Barlow on the cobbles on-and-off for 23 years.
But he wasn't the first person to take on the role. Ken Barlow's son made his debut on the cobbles over five decades ago and has been played by a record SEVEN actors in that time, with the character facing a whole host of storylines including bigamy, alcoholism, a custody battle, doomed love affairs and being framed for the murder of his lover Tina.
Peter was born on-screen during an episode broadcast on 5 April 1965, along with his twin sister Susan. He was portrayed as a baby by Robert Heanue, from 1965 to 1970, before Christopher Dormer took over the role for a year. Then in 1971, Mark Duncan appeared as Peter briefly before Linus Roache took over the casting from 1973 to 1975.
Try MEN Premium for FREE by clicking here for no ads, fun puzzles and brilliant new features
In 1977, Peter returned, this time played by Joseph McKenna until the following year while David Lonsdale portrayed Peter in 1986. Chris Gascoyne didn't make his first appearance in the role until 2000 during the 40th anniversary live episode. He then left the role in 2003 and returned in 2007 for a brief stint before returning full-time in 2008.
In January 2014 it was confirmed that Chris would be leaving once again, but the following year he did reprise the role for two episodes for the funeral of Deirdre Barlow, played by Anne Kirkbride. It was then revealed in 2016 that Peter would be making a return to Weatherfield with Chris remaining in the role ever since.
However, this Christmas, Corrie fans are set to see Peter - or should we say Chris - in a whole new light. iT has been announced that the soap star will play Captain Hook in a new version of Peter Pan which runs across Christmas and New Year at The Alban Arena in Saint Albans.
Announcing the news on social media alongside a picture of Chris in his new character, The Alban Arena said: "EXCITING PANTO NEWS. The Alban Arena are delighted to announce Coronation Street Legend Chris Gascoyne will star as Captain Hook in The All New Adventures of Peter Pan this pantomime season!
"Chris Gascoyne is famous for his role as Peter Barlow in Britain’s top soap, Coronation Street (ITV) in which he has led numerous high profile storylines to great acclaim.
"This promises to be our most spectacular pantomime yet with stunning sets, dazzling costumes, and a star-studded cast, this is a must-see show for the whole family. Don't miss your chance to experience the wonder and excitement of Neverland once more in Paul Hendy's pantomime sequel!"
And it's fair to say fans are excited. Alongside the annoucnement @carlasbarlow tweeted: "Nah this is incredible." @kingdomofcarter laughed: "Nah corrie are too funny saying that Peter has been on a boat for 3 months when he’s playing a literal pirate." @Lauz_79 replied: "The whole Carter fandom going to St Albans Arena in December! That’s the Chris Gascoyne effect."
@jennyluv__ shared: "I’ve booked tickets so excited to see Chris." @alikingsevie wrote: "My prayers have been answered," in answer to a tweet they shared back in 2020 which read: "Petition for chris to do another panto when all this is over."
