Coronation Street legend Roy Cropper has not had an easy time of it over the years – but viewers are now predicting the cafe owner is set to get a new romance on the cobbles

Coronation Street’s Roy Cropper, played by David Neilson, might be in for an unexpected romantic twist on the cobbles, fans speculate.

The much-loved character made his first appearance back in 1995 as Deirdre Barlow’s (Anne Kirkbride) neighbour in a block of flats and quickly won over viewers. Throughout his 29-year tenure on the iconic soap, the cafe owner has been central to numerous major storylines.

His marriage to Hayley (Julie Hesmondhalgh) is perhaps the most memorable. The couple got together in the late nineties and became one of television’s most cherished and enduring pairs.

Roy and Hayley remained together until Hayley’s devastating death in 2014. Fans will remember her diagnosis with terminal pancreatic cancer and her heartbreaking death, with husband Roy at her side, after consuming a fatal mix of drugs, reports Lancs Live.

Roy’s wife Hayley died in 2014(Image: ITV)

It’s safe to say that Roy’s time in Weatherfield has been filled with drama. This was particularly ‘true’ last year when Roy found himself behind bars in March 2024 for the murder of Lauren Bolton (Cait Fitton), who was later discovered to be alive.

Despite all the turmoil on the cobbles, Roy hasn’t found love again since Hayley’s death in 2014. However, viewers are now predicting a surprise new romance for Roy with a familiar face on the street.

In a surprising turn for Coronation Street fans, it has been revealed that after 25 years, Eileen Grimshaw (played by Sue Cleaver) is set to depart from the cobbles. In a twist to her exit saga, Eileen’s sister Julie Carp (portrayed by Katy Cavanagh) will be returning to Weatherfield, making her presence known for the first time in nine years.

Viewers are predicting a Julie and Roy romance(Image: ITV)

Speculation among fans is already running wild with predictions about potential romantic sparks flying between Julie and the beloved Roy upon her return. A Coronation Street enthusiast took to a Facebook fan page, igniting the discussion with a post: “Roy needs to get in a new relationship!”

Another soap superfan chimed in, propelling Julie as an ideal love interest, commenting: “I always thought Evelyn, but maybe Julie?” The sentimental members of the community are all on board with the idea; one remarked: “That would be sweet! I always liked her.” While another confidently asserted: “I can see this happening.”

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