Bill Roache, the legendary actor known for his role as Ken Barlow on Coronation Street, faced a controversial storyline that he found difficult to accept. Roache has portrayed the character since the show’s debut episode aired on December 9, 1960. His record as the longest-serving soap actor was established in 2010, and he continues to captivate audiences after more than six decades.
Rejecting the Heartbreaking Storyline
Recently, Roache opened up about a particular storyline that he wasn’t comfortable with. In this arc, Ken Barlow had an illegitimate child whom he protected fiercely. However, in a surprising twist, the mother abruptly reappeared to take the child away. Roache felt that this sudden change did not align with the deep emotional investment he had in the character’s journey. He stated, “I said, ‘I’m sorry, I just can’t do that.’” This reaction reflects his intense connection to Ken, further emphasizing his belief that he feels like Ken’s caretaker rather than just an actor.
A Lifelong Commitment to the Role
At 94, Roache remains dedicated to his craft and the character he embodies. His philosophy regarding aging is rooted in positivity. He mentioned that he tries not to dwell on age but focuses on enjoying life. “I think to quite a large extent aging is a belief system,” he explained, advocating for an active approach to life rather than succumbing to age-related limitations.
Embracing the Role of Ken Barlow
Roache’s tenure on Coronation Street has undoubtedly shaped his identity. He describes his performance as “pseudo-method,” asserting that he simply portrays himself through Ken. Memorizing lines, he notes, has become second nature over the years. “It’s an exchange,” he said, referring to the dialogue in the show, which varies significantly from poetry.
Progression and Evolution of the Show
- When Roache started, there were only two episodes per week, consistently attracting over 20 million viewers.
- The show is now filmed in High Definition, delivering five episodes weekly with multiple characters and intricate storylines.
- Despite changes, Roache expresses fond memories of past eras, particularly the 1970s and 1980s, noting the camaraderie among the cast.
While methods of filming have shifted, Roache appreciates the current pace, allowing for a flexible and efficient production. He acknowledges that each era of the show has its unique charm and contributions to its enduring popularity.
Personal Beliefs and Reflections
Outside of his acting career, Roache has been open about his spiritual beliefs. Following the losses of his daughter Edwina in 1984 and his wife Sara in 2009, he found comfort in his faith. He believes in one loving God and the continuity of the human soul beyond physical existence, saying, “I know that life goes on.”
The full details of Bill Roache’s reflections and experiences can be found on the Session 7 podcast. Coronation Street continues to air Monday to Friday at 8:30 PM on ITV1 and ITVX.
