The ITV soap tonight announced that the man behind the character of David Barlow has sadly died.
Coronation Street tonight announced the death of one of its former stars. Alan Rothwell, who played Ken Barlow’s brother David during the 1960s, has died at the age of 89.
The soap’s official account shared a black and white image of Alan in character as David saying he will be “forever membered” for being one of the first actors to appears in the soap when it first aired in December 1960.
A sad post read: “We’re very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell’s passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this very sad time. He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members of Coronation Street.”
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Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon, who plays Maria Connor, added her name to tributes, writing: “So sad to hear this. Alan was a also drama teacher at our drama school and I have such fond memories of being taught by him… he was a wonderful man.”
One fan wrote: “Very sad news, part of the original Barlow family. Thoughts with family & friends.” Another said: “May he rest in peace. Condolences to his friends and family x.”
Alan’s screen brother William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, has held the record as the longest serving actor in a soap opera since 2010 and is unlikely to ever be beaten.
He said this week that he has no intention of standing down, saying: “I feel I’m Ken’s protector, I feel I’m looking after him. His caretaker rather than protector. That’s what I do.”
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