Yahoo News Corrie's mystery newcomer Melissa Johns speaks out
Melissa Johns was spotted earlier this month filming with members of the Coronation Street cast, launching speculation about her being a new actor on the soap.
That speculation can now be put to bed, as she has discussed her new role for the first time, in an interview with Gloucester Live – though only up to a point when it comes to specifics: "All I can say is my character is a 5'4" blonde."
After she found out that she had landed the role, Melissa eagerly told her nan about the good news, which was tinged with sadness after the death of her grandad.
"He really was the biggest Coronation Street fan and my nan told me that before he died he was watching an episode and said, 'We'll be seeing our Melissa on there one day'.
"Although she was crying because it was brilliant news, it was also bittersweet because it came too late to tell him."
And Melissa – who was born with one arm – says that her fellow Corrie actors have given her a brilliant welcome, and have been there to support her if necessary.
"The rest of the cast have been amazing – really sweet. If they see me struggling to do anything like doing my shoes up, they think nothing of getting down on their knees to help me.
"Shayne Ward is delightful but Connor [McIntyre] who plays Pat Phelan has been my rock from day one. He is one of the nicest people I've met in my life."
Being part of such a high-profile programme means Melissa's life will inevitably change, but she also sees it as a great opportunity to help positively shape the lives of others too.
"I've already been asked to be an ambassador for a disability charity, which is really flattering" she said.
"When I was growing up I had some very dark moments when I did not like what I looked like at all and this will give me a platform to be an advocate for other people.
"In the current climate, if you do not have a voice you will be swept under the carpet.
"Something like Coronation Street, which goes into people's living rooms practically every night, has an opportunity to change the way society views things like race, relationships and disability."
Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on ITV.
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