Coronation Street fan-favourite takes break from ITV soap as fans say 'much deserved'


Daniel Brocklebank, who plays Billy Mayhew in Coronation Street, has been receiving the same message from friends, fans and followers as he updated them on his life off-screen following a heart-wrenching week in his character's storyline.

The actor has recently been involved in a series of distressing scenes in the ITV soap. As regular viewers will know, Billy tragically missed the chance to say goodbye to his husband Paul Foreman, who sadly passed away.

Paul, a former builder portrayed by Peter Ash, was diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease (MND), a currently incurable condition, in April 2023. His family then watched his health decline dramatically, starting with losing the use of his limbs and eventually his ability to speak.

However, in recent episodes, Paul's health took a turn for the worse and he was rushed to hospital struggling to breathe. Later, after doctors told his family that there was nothing more they could do but make him comfortable, Paul drew his last breath.

In a heartbreaking twist, a series of events, beginning with Billy looking for his lost phone, delayed his arrival at the hospital, preventing him from saying goodbye. Although he thought he had expressed his feelings to Paul over the phone, in reality, Paul had already tragically passed away, reports the Mirror.

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Corrie fans have seen Billy Mayhew wrestling with guilt for not being present during Paul's final moments, even confronting Paul's mother Bernie Winter, who is distracted with the arrangements for Paul's farewell.

Behind the scenes, Daniel Brocklebank, the actor who has played Billy for nearly a decade, is flying off to sunnier climes in search of some well-earned relaxation after an intense stint on the soap.

The star took to Instagram to share his excitement with a selfie and the caption: "It appears that I've awoken in the Caribbean!! Bring on the relax, sunshine and much needed sleep!" Receiving words of support, his partner Jordan Coulthard commented, "You deserve this so much babe. Have the best time!" while former co-star Peter Ash wrote, "Looks amazing! Enjoy your well-deserved rest, buddy!"

The stream of good wishes continued from followers, with one posting: "Enjoy @danielbrocklebank well deserved."

Others added their sentiments with comments like "Enjoy your much deserved R&R!", "Well deserved! Enjoy your rest and relaxation!" and "Enjoy your well deserved break Daniel."

Another fan commented, "Much deserved Daniel! Have a wonderful time."