Coronation Street star shares huge job announcement with fans ahead of emotional exit

Coronation Street star Peter Ash is set to leave the cobbles after three years, as his character Paul Foreman’s Motor Neurone Disease (MND) storyline comes to a close

Coronation Street’s Peter Ash is preparing to say goodbye to the cobbles after six years following his character Paul Foreman’s emotional Motor Neurone Disease (MND) storyline.

The actor first appeared in Weatherfield in 2018 as David Platt’s ex-prison cellmate, Paul Foreman, and quickly became a mainstay of the show after Paul’s release from prison. His character made soap history with the first same-sex wedding when he married on-screen partner Billy Mayhew, played by Daniel Brocklebank, over six decades after the show’s launch.

However, Paul’s MND diagnosis has led to difficult times for those closest to him on the show. Initially keeping his condition a secret, Paul eventually shared his struggle with his husband and other loved ones.

Recently, viewers have witnessed Paul’s health deteriorate, with a special episode offering a touching day-in-the-life perspective of Paul. The actor’s portrayal of the character dealing with MND has even won him awards, including the recent Radio Times Soap Award for Best Storyline.

Ahead of his character’s upcoming exit, the actor has hinted at his new acting projects. A joint post with Anton Benson Productions on Thursday (July 25) revealed that Peter would be swapping the Corrie set for the stage, as he is set to star in the pantomime, Aladdin, according to the Mirror, reports the Express.

**Peter has landed a new role away from Corrie** (Image: (Image: Instagram/ @peterash_85))

Peter, known for his role as Paul Foreman in Coronation Street, is set to dazzle audiences as the villainous Abanazar in this year’s Oldham panto. “OLDHAM PANTO CASTING NEWS! ” the announcement read.

“We are thrilled to announce that PETER ASH will star as Abanazar in this year’s panto at Queen Elizabeth Hall, Aladdin! Peter is best known for portraying the character Paul Foreman in Coronation Street.”

**Paul has been battling Motor Neurone Disease**

Chatting with Dermott O’Leary on ITV’s This Morning about his upcoming summer following a major plot twist, Peter said about his panto gig: “That’s [in] December,” adding, “I’ve got a bit of a while to prep for that yet. I’m just going to enjoy the summer.”

True to his word, Peter has been teasing fans with glimpses of his chill summer vibes. On July 31, he took to social media to share snaps from his trip to Broadstairs, captioning the seaside shots: “Down in Broadstairs,”.

Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX