Actor Danny Cunningham appeared in Coronation Street as Paul Foreman’s estranged father Denny earlier this year, but it wasn’t his first time appearing in an ITV soap

Danny Cunningham appeared in Coronation Street earlier this year as Paul Foreman’s estranged father Denny, but it turns out he’s actually appeared in soaps before.

Denny was introduced as part of Paul’s tragic MND storyline. He is the father of twins Paul and Gemma, and the ex of Bernie Winter. He arrived in Weatherfield after finding out about Paul’s MND diagnosis. However, Denny clashed immediately with his ex Bernie and their children and his time in Weatherfield was only short, but he’s now due to return in the wake of Paul’s passing.

This isn’t the first time Danny has appeared in Coronation Street, as he actually made his debut on the cobbles back in 2000. He played a character named Jimmy Sykes, who was Mike Baldwin’s wife Linda’s brother. Danny’s stint on Corrie lasted for around 16 episodes before he exited in 2001.

Danny has also appeared in Emmerdale in the past

However, he’s also appeared in ITV soap Emmerdale. Danny played Connor Cooper for 13 episodes around 2020 and 2021, in scenes with Paul Ashdale.

Away from soapland, the actor has starred in the hit BBC series Happy Valley as Toby Millward, while other roles include characters in New Tricks, Last Tango in Halifax, Holby City, Waterloo Road and Casualty. Danny’s career spans decades, with him also appearing in Grange Hill in the 90s, before also appearing in Heartbeat, Soldier Soldier, Peak Practice, Cracker, The Bill and Shameless.

Danny will return to Coronation Street as Denny in scenes airing on 2 October, as Billy conducts Paul’s emotional funeral. Spoilers have revealed that as Billy arrives at the church, he spots Paul’s estranged father lurking around. He soon realises Denny is intoxicated.

Denny was the father of Paul Foreman (Peter Ash) (Image: ITV)

Knowing that everyone would be furious to see Denny following his previous plan to steal from Paul, Billy orders him to stay hidden. It remains to be seen if the funeral will go as planned with Denny around, especially if Bernie or Gemma spots him hanging around.

Paul, played by actor Peter Ash, passed away in September following a lengthy battle with Motor Neurone Disease. His health had continued to deteriorate over recent months, with viewers eventually seeing the character unable to speak or eat without help.

Coronation Street worked closely with the MND Association on Paul’s storyline. Actor Peter won a National Television Award for his incredible portrayal of Paul earlier this year.