Coronation Street have cast Ryan Mulvey for a new story that will air this spring.
Ryan is best known as JJ Osborne in Hollyoaks, and has recently left the Channel 4 soap following the conclusion of a groundbreaking plotline.
Introduced early last year, JJ is the estranged son of Darren Osborne (Ashley Taylor-Dawson), and arrived in the village with his sister Frankie (Isabelle Smith).
Whilst it initially seemed that the twins were overly protective of one another, it soon became apparent that Frankie was was actually fearful of him after suffering years of sexual abuse.
Their mum Suzanne (Suzanne Hall) had long ignored her claims, allowing JJ – in horrific scenes – to rape his own sibling.
The abuser was diagnosed with leukaemia and recorded a video confession for Frankie, finally admitting what he did.
Frankie, however, donated her bone marrow so that he could live, hoping that he would be well enough to stand trial and pay for his crimes.
When the case went to trial, JJ claimed that his confession was recorded under duress, but he finally admitted to the crimes and the jury found him guilty.
Now, according to The Sun, Ryan has bagged himself a new role on the long-running ITV drama and will be heading to Weatherfield in the coming weeks.
This is a huge scoop for the cobbles, as both Ryan and co-star Isabelle were praised for tackling the controversial story.
Despite some criticism from viewers, Hollyoaks boss Hannah Cheers previously spoke of why the taboo subject needed to be tackled.
‘Sibling sexual abuse is a subject matter that desperately merits attention and recognition,’ she said.
Coronation Street cast exits – who is going?
Sue Devaney as Debbie Webster
Fans have been left distraught at news of Debbie’s upcoming departure, with the character being written out as part of a storyline focusing on dementia.
A source told Metro: ‘It’s one of the show’s biggest storylines of the year, and a real chance for Sue to finally get her time in the spotlight – it will just be devastating for fans that it will effectively be her final storyline.
‘It’s one of many major storylines new boss Kate Brooks has in the bag, and there will not be a dry eye in the house.
‘There is no doubt in the Corrie family that she will give the performance of a lifetime and make Debbie’s exit one to remember for years.’
Sue Cleaver as Eileen Grimshaw
Loose Women and I’m A Celebrity star Sue has been central to the show for two and a half decades but now she will be saying goodbye.
She confirmed: ‘I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on Coronation Street.’
‘The door is still firmly open, but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures, and live fearlessly.’
Colson Smith as Craig Tinker
After 14 years, Corrie has decided to also write out police officer Craig, with the actor sharing his love for the show on social media following the decision, delivered to him last year.
He said: ‘I’ve loved every single second of my 14-year stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world. I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street.
‘I’ve learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I’m excited to play out the exit story for our Craigy. For me, this is just the end of the beginning.
‘I genuinely can’t wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me. Long live the cobbles!’
Charlotte Jordan as Daisy Midgeley
After a very busy four years on the show, Daisy is set to leave as part of a currently to-secret explosive storyline, with Charlotte keen to try other projects.
She said in a statement: ‘My time at Coronation Street is something I’ll always cherish.
‘After a brilliant four years for Daisy, it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.
‘It’s been a privilege to be part of a wonderful institution with even more wonderful colleagues who have taught me so much.’
Shelley King as Yasmeen Metcalfe
After 10 years, Yasmeen will be departing the cobbles – and she has already filmed her final scenes in December, so expect her last episode soon.
Metro understands that she won’t be killed off.
A show insider has clarified: ‘Shelley spoke to producers early last year and advised that after 10 years on the show and being involved in many major storylines during the past decade she had decided the time has come for her to explore other opportunities.
‘Shelley is an accomplished stage and television actress and we fully understand her desire to take her career in another direction after 10 years playing the same role.
‘She filmed her final scenes in December.’
Paddy Bever as Max Turner
With Paddy having filmed his final scenes, it is expected he will leave in spring.
‘After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities. I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way, Paddy, 22, said in a statement.
Talking to The Mirror, he added: ‘It’s been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show. This chapter has been unforgettable and while I look forward to what lies ahead, I will treasure these memories.’
‘It’s one of the most infrequently disclosed forms of sexual abuse, yet the statistics are startling. Hollyoaks is shining a light on this issue for the first time in a long-term soap storyline because we need to get this conversation started amongst our multi-generational audience.
‘Our research, story, script and writing teams have devoted themselves to telling this story truthfully and passionately.
‘I believe this story will make an impact for years to come and I am proud that Hollyoaks is still breaking new ground almost four decades on. That’s what we’re here for.’
Metro have contacted Coronation Street for comment.
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