Ryan Connor is a fictional character from the British
ITV
ITV or iTV may refer to:
ITV
*Independent Television (ITV), a British television network, consisting of:
** ITV (TV network), a free-to-air national commercial television network covering the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man, and the Channel Islan ...
soap opera
A soap opera, or ''soap'' for short, is a typically long-running radio or television serial, frequently characterized by melodrama, ensemble casts, and sentimentality. The term "soap opera" originated from radio dramas originally being sponsored ...
''
Coronation Street
''Coronation Street'' is an English soap opera created by Granada Television and shown on ITV since 9 December 1960. The programme centres around a cobbled, terraced street in Weatherfield, a fictional town based on inner-city Salford.
Origi ...
''. He first appeared on-screen during the episode broadcast on 30 August 2006. The character was initially portrayed by actor Ben Thompson from his introduction until 8 October 2010, when the character was written out of the serial. Ryan was created by series producer
Steve Frost
Steve November (born Steven Frost) is a British television producer and executive. Originally known as Steve Frost during his early career, he became a writer for the Sky One drama ''Dream Team''. He also took roles as an assistant director until ...
as part of the Connor family. The character was reintroduced in 2012, with the role recast to actor
Sol Heras
Sol Heras (born 8 October 1987) is an English actor. He was the second actor to portray the character Ryan Connor in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', from 2012 until 2013. He replaced Ben Thompson, and in turn was replaced by Ryan Pr ...
. Heras quit the role in July 2013 and Ryan departed on 2 October 2013. Ryan's return was confirmed in February 2018 and he returned on 23 May 2018, with Ryan Prescott recast in the role.
Ryan's storylines include discovering that
Michelle Connor
Michelle Connor (also McDonald) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by former Hear'Say singer, Kym Marsh. The character first appeared on-screen during the episode airing on 3 April 2006. ...
(
Kym Marsh
Kimberley Gail Ratcliff (''née'' Marsh, previously Ryder and Lomas; born 13 June 1976) is an English actress, television presenter and singer. In 2001, she won a place in the band Hear'Say as a result of appearing on the reality television ser ...
) is not his biological mother, his relationships with
Sian Powers
Sian Powers is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Sacha Parkinson. Sian was introduced as a love interest for Sophie Webster (Brooke Vincent). Sian joined the cast of ''Coronation Street'' al ...
(
Sacha Parkinson
Sacha Louise Parkinson (born 11 March 1992) is an English actress, known for her role as Sian Powers on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''.
Early life
Sacha Louise Parkinson was born on 11 March 1992 in Salford, Greater Manchester, the ...
),
Katy Armstrong
Katy Armstrong is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', played by Georgia May Foote. She made her first appearance during the episode broadcast on 30 July 2010. Foote had previously appeared in the soap in ...
(
Georgia May Foote
Georgia May Foote (born 11 February 1991) is an English actress and model. She is best known for playing Alison Simmons in the BBC school drama series ''Grange Hill'' from 2005 to 2008 and Katy Armstrong in the ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ...
) and
Bethany Platt
Bethany Platt is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 4 June 2000. She was played by Mia Cookson in 2000 and by twins Amy and Emily Walton from 2000 ...
(
Lucy Fallon
Lucy Fallon (born 13 November 1995) is an English actress. She played Bethany Platt in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' (2015–2020). The role has earned her widespread recognition and several accolades, including two British Soap Awa ...
), becoming a drug abuser, feuds with his brother
Ali Neeson
The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'' in 2007, by order of first appearance.
Roger Stiles
Roger Stiles, played by Andrew Dunn, is a plumber who fixes Janice Battersby's (Vick ...
(Dario Coates/
James Burrows
James Edward Burrows (born December 30, 1940), sometimes known as Jim "Jimmy" Burrows, is an American television director who has been working in television since the 1970s.Stated in interview on ''Inside the Actors Studio'' Burrows has direct ...
), along with fellow residents Vinnie Powers (Ian Dunn),
Owen Armstrong
Owen Armstrong is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', played by Ian Puleston-Davies. He made his first on-screen appearance on 9 June 2010 and left the show on 15 April 2015.
During his time on the sh ...
(
Ian Puleston-Davies
Ian Puleston-Davies (born 6 September 1958) is a Welsh actor and writer. He is best known for his role as builder Owen Armstrong in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' from 2010 to 2015.
In November 2014, ITV announced that Puleston-Davi ...
), and
Sarah Platt
Sarah-Louise Barlow (also Platt, Tilsley and Grimshaw) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 2 February 1987. She was played by Leah King in 1987 an ...
(
Tina O'Brien
Tina Michelle O'Brien (born 7 August 1983) is an English actress. She is best known for her portrayal of Sarah Platt in the long-running ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' (1999–2008, 2015–present). She also appeared in the BBC One drama s ...
); encouraging his own friend
Sophie Webster
Sophie Webster is a Character (arts), fictional character from the Television in the United Kingdom, British ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 4 November 1994. She was ...
(
Brooke Vincent
Brooke Levi Vincent (born 4 June 1992) is an English actress, known for her portrayal of Sophie Webster in the ITV soap-opera ''Coronation Street'', which she played from 2004 to 2019.
Early life
Vincent was born in Audenshaw, Greater Manche ...
) to take drugs; being in debt to drug lord Ronan Truman ( Alan McKenna) that results in the character being run over by the latter; and getting beat up by local builder
Gary Windass
Gary Windass is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Mikey North. He made his first appearance on November 14, 2008, the same episode where his parents Eddie (Steve Huison) and Anna Windass (Deb ...
(
Mikey North
Michael "Mikey" North (born 27 September 1986) is an English actor best known for his role as Gary Windass in the ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'' since 2008.
Early life
North was born in the Cayton area of Scarborough and began acting a ...
) after unwittingly getting involved in his loan-sharking empire. He has since started a relationship with
Alya Nazir
''Coronation Street'' is a British soap opera first broadcast on 9 December 1960. The following is a list of characters that appeared in 2014, by order of first appearance. All characters were introduced by series producer Stuart Blackburn. Shar ...
(
Sair Khan
Sair Khan (born 11 February 1988) is an English actress, known for playing the role of Alya Nazir in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' since 2014. In 2018, she competed in the ITV reality series '' I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!'' ...
) and supported her grandmother
Yasmeen Nazir
''Coronation Street'' is a British soap opera first broadcast on 9 December 1960. The following is a list of characters that appeared in 2014, by order of first appearance. All characters were introduced by series producer Stuart Blackburn. Shar ...
(
Shelley King
Shelley King (born 25 September 1955) is a British actress, known for her roles as Jay Harper on the BBC drama series ''Angels'' and Yasmeen Nazir on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''.
Early and personal life
King was born in Calcutta, I ...
) when she goes through a
coercive control
Coercion () is compelling a party to act in an involuntary manner by the use of threats, including threats to use force against a party. It involves a set of forceful actions which violate the free will of an individual in order to induce a desi ...
ordeal at the hands of her husband,
Geoff Metcalfe
'' Coronation Street'' is a British soap opera first broadcast on 9 December 1960. The following is a list of characters introduced in 2018, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by series producer Kate Oates or her successo ...
(
Ian Bartholomew
Ian Bartholomew (born 23 August 1954) is a British actor and musician from Portsmouth, England who has worked widely in both theatre and television. In March 2018, Bartholomew joined the cast of ITV soap opera, ''Coronation Street'', as Geoff ...
).
Storylines
2006–2010
Ryan arrives with his mother
Michelle Connor
Michelle Connor (also McDonald) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by former Hear'Say singer, Kym Marsh. The character first appeared on-screen during the episode airing on 3 April 2006. ...
(
Kym Marsh
Kimberley Gail Ratcliff (''née'' Marsh, previously Ryder and Lomas; born 13 June 1976) is an English actress, television presenter and singer. In 2001, she won a place in the band Hear'Say as a result of appearing on the reality television ser ...
) and it is clear that the two of them have a very close relationship. Ryan is caught by
Norris Cole
Norris Gene Cole II (born October 13, 1988) is an American professional basketball player for Grand Rapids Gold of the NBA G League. A 6' 2" point guard, he is a two-time NBA champion, winning back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013 with the Miami ...
(
Malcolm Hebden
Malcolm Hebden (born 21 December 1939) is an English former actor. He is known for portraying the role of Norris Cole in the ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'' on and off between 1994 and 2020. Aged 81, he announced his retirement from act ...
) vandalising The Kabin. Michelle makes him help in the newsagents every night after school for a week. For a time, Michelle dates affluent businessman
Sonny Dhillon
The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' in 2006, by order of first appearance.
Aadi Alahan
Aadi Alahan, who first appears on 13 January 2006, is introduced alongside his twin sist ...
(
Pal Aron
Pal Aron (born 1969) is an English television and theatre actor, known for his roles as Adam Osman in ''Casualty'', Brandon Kane in ''The Bill'',
Jayesh Parekh and Sonny Dhillon in ''Coronation Street''.
Before professionally acting, he perform ...
). After they break up, Ryan goes
joyriding
Joyriding refers to driving or riding in a stolen vehicle, most commonly a car, with no particular goal other than the pleasure or thrill of doing so or to impress other people. The term "Joy Riding" was coined by a New York judge in 1908.
Joy ...
in Sonny's car. He is caught by the police, though later released. When he returns to the Street, his uncle Paul Connor ( Sean Gallagher) smacks him across the face. The reason for this is later revealed to be that Paul caused the demise of Ryan's late father, Dean Powell, due to careless driving when Ryan was 9 years old. Later, Paul dies in a car accident after kidnapping
Leanne Battersby
Leanne Battersby (also Tilsley and Barlow) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', played by Jane Danson. It was announced in February 1997 that a "family from hell" would be introduced to ''Coronation S ...
(
Jane Danson
Jane Danson (born Jane Elizabeth Dawson, 8 November 1978) is an English actress. She is known for her portrayal of Leanne Battersby in the ITV soap opera, '' Coronation Street'', between 1997 and 2000, and from 2004 onwards. Her other television ...
). Ryan is really upset after losing Paul and his father but he survives without them remembering that he still has Liam.
Ryan is stalked by a mysterious stranger who knows him by name. When tracked down, the man,
Nick Neeson
The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' in 2007, by order of first appearance.
Roger Stiles
Roger Stiles, played by Andrew Dunn, is a plumber who fixes Janice Battersby's (Vick ...
(
Robert Horwell
Robert "Bob" Horwell is a British cinematographer and actor who was born in Scarborough, North Riding of Yorkshire. His father, whom he was named after, was a coal merchant and Audrey, his mother, was also a successful small businesswoman. His s ...
), explains that he believes Ryan to be his real son, and his own son
Alex Neeson
The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' in 2007, by order of first appearance.
Roger Stiles
Roger Stiles, played by Andrew Dunn, is a plumber who fixes Janice Battersby's (Vicky ...
(Dario Coates) to be Michelle's after a baby mix-up at the hospital. A DNA test later confirms this to be the case. Ryan gets extremely jealous when his mother starts taking Alex out for the day and has a fight with him. They are both hit by a car but suffer minor injuries. Ryan opens up to his uncle
Liam Connor
Liam Connor is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', played by Rob James-Collier from 2006 to 2008.
Storylines
Liam first appeared on ''Coronation Street'' in August 2006 when he and nephew Ryan ( Ben Th ...
(
Rob James-Collier
Robert James-Collier (born 23 September 1976) (known professionally as Rob James-Collier) is a British actor. He is known for his roles as Thomas Barrow in ''Downton Abbey'' and as Liam Connor in ''Coronation Street''.
Early life
James-Coll ...
) about how much Michelle is choosing Alex over him and then cries. Liam tells Steve McDonald (
Simon Gregson
Simon Alan Gregory (born 2 October 1974), better known by his stage name, Simon Gregson, is an English actor. He is best known for his portrayal of Steve McDonald in the long-running ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' since 1989. He has rece ...
), Michelle's boyfriend, who tells Michelle that Ryan is losing sleep over the fear of losing his only parent. Even though Michelle does not want to lose them both she still has to send Alex home because Ryan is the son that she has loved and raised since birth. She is also reassured by Steve that even though Alex is the son she had with Dean, Ryan is the son she raised with him and the son Dean knew before he died. After Alex moves out, Ryan moves back in. Ryan continues to see Nick on occasion but stops after his uncle's death. He realises that no one can compare to Dean. One time Ryan leaves his book behind, leaving his mother to chase after him starting to say he is just like his dad. Ryan becomes upset at the prospect of not inheriting anything from Dean but then Michelle reassures him that because they spent so much time together his traits have rubbed off on Ryan. Ryan then looks wistful as he started to realise how great Dean was.
Ryan attends
Tony Gordon
Tony Gordon is a Character (arts), fictional character from the Television in the United Kingdom, British ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by actor Gray O'Brien. The character first appeared on-screen on 16 Sep ...
's (
Gray O'Brien
Gray O'Brien (born Gerard O'Brien, 11 August 1968) is a Scottish television and film actor, best known for his portrayal of the villainous Weatherfield businessman Tony Gordon in the popular ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' from 2007–2010 ...
) stag party. Tony sends Ryan home as he is too young to go to a strip club and later that night Liam is killed in a hit-and-run. Ryan is later informed of the news by Michelle. Ryan became inconsolable and Michelle thinks it best that he doesn't see the body at the morgue as it will upset him even more. However, Ryan adamantly argues that he has to come in order to get closure so his mother reluctantly gives in. On the day of Liam's funeral, Ryan tells Maria that he is trying to escape his grandfather
Barry Barry may refer to:
People and fictional characters
* Barry (name), including lists of people with the given name, nickname or surname, as well as fictional characters with the given name
* Dancing Barry, stage name of Barry Richards (born c. 19 ...
(
Frank Grimes
Frank Grimes (born 1947) is an Irish stage and screen actor.
Grimes was born in Dublin. He achieved his first major success as the young Brendan Behan in the 1967 stage adaptation of Behan's autobiography, ''Borstal Boy'', at the Abbey Theatre. ...
) because he is trying to bond with him like Liam and he is not in the mood, however, this all changes after the funeral. Ryan kisses
Sian Powers
Sian Powers is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Sacha Parkinson. Sian was introduced as a love interest for Sophie Webster (Brooke Vincent). Sian joined the cast of ''Coronation Street'' al ...
(
Sacha Parkinson
Sacha Louise Parkinson (born 11 March 1992) is an English actress, known for her role as Sian Powers on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''.
Early life
Sacha Louise Parkinson was born on 11 March 1992 in Salford, Greater Manchester, the ...
) after one of his gigs and the pair enter into a relationship. Sian's father,
Vinnie
Vinny or Vinnie is a masculine given name, usually a shortened version of Vincent, Vincenzo, or Vicente, which may refer to:
Vincents
* Vinnie Anderson (born 1979), New Zealand rugby league footballer
* Vinny Appice (born 1957), American rock ...
(Ian Dunn) arrives on the scene, threatening Ryan as he thinks that he has been sleeping with Sian, after finding condoms in her bag. It is revealed that Sian bought the condoms and she and Ryan have sex. Sophie, Michelle and Jake Harman (
Kenny Doughty
Kenny Doughty is an English actor and director, best known for playing DS Aiden Healy on ITV's Crime Drama '' Vera.''
Early life
Doughty was born in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. He attended Charter School, which became the Kingstone School on B ...
) catch them, causing an argument that results in Sian leaving and spoiling Michelle and Jake's night. After Sian's father finds out that Ryan and Sian have slept together, he sends Sian to
Southport
Southport is a seaside town in the Metropolitan Borough of Sefton in Merseyside, England. At the 2001 census, it had a population of 90,336, making it the eleventh most populous settlement in North West England.
Southport lies on the Irish ...
to live with her mother, leaving Ryan and Sophie devastated.
Sian comes back to Weatherfield and is reunited with Ryan and Sophie. Later Sian breaks up with Ryan, after suspecting that he is attracted to another girl. When Sophie finds Ryan sat on the pavement outside his house, she gives him some advice on Sian. Ryan misinterprets the situation and kisses Sophie, causing her to walk off in disgust. Ryan later begs Sophie not to tell Sian about what he did and he later makes amends with her. However, Sophie tells Sian about the kiss in front of Ryan and Sian ends the relationship for good. After Sian goes back to Southport, Ryan bumps into Sophie in the street and tells Sophie he thinks they are getting back together after Sian phoned him. However, Ryan catches Sophie and Sian kissing at the builder's yard. Although he is initially disgusted that Sian is bisexual, he agrees to keep quiet about the relationship. Ryan tires of life in Manchester but stays on, as he feels that Michelle is dependent on him, until
Ciaran McCarthy
Ciaran McCarthy is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Keith Duffy. He made his first on-screen appearance on 7 August 2002, before departing in 2005. He returned in 2010 until Duffy temporary ...
(
Keith Duffy
Keith Peter Thomas Francis Julian John Duffy (born 1 October 1974) is an Irish singer, actor, radio and television presenter and drummer who began his professional music career as part of Irish boy band Boyzone alongside Ronan Keating, Mik ...
) convinces him that he needs to start the life he dreams of. After spending a number of days in Glasgow with Ciaran, Ryan decides to transfer to university there and leaves Weatherfield.
2012–2013
Two years later, Ryan returns to Weatherfield and spends time with Sophie. He tries to kiss her, but she rejects him. Ryan accidentally sets alight the curtains in Steve's house and Steve finds them trying to extinguish the flames, so he tells Michelle. Michelle gets Ryan a job working at Underworld factory, but he fakes a fall and tries to sue the company. The factory's owner,
Rob Donovan
Rob Donovan is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'', portrayed by Marc Baylis He was introduced as the brother of Carla Connor (Alison King). He made his first screen appearance during the episode broadc ...
(
Marc Baylis
Marc Baylis (born 3 April 1978) is a British stage, television and film actor. He trained at Mountview Academy of Theatre Arts, where he was awarded the Stage Scholarship. He is best known for his role as Rob Donovan in '' Coronation Street'' f ...
), proves Ryan faked his fall when he and Michelle see him performing the
limbo
In Catholic theology, Limbo (Latin '' limbus'', edge or boundary, referring to the edge of Hell) is the afterlife condition of those who die in original sin without being assigned to the Hell of the Damned. Medieval theologians of Western Euro ...
in a bar. Michelle throws Ryan out of her flat, so he gets drunk at the Rovers. When Steve takes him home, Ryan confesses that he has been kicked out of university.
Ryan begins working at Street Cars taxi firm and befriends
Kylie Platt
Kylie Platt (also Turner) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'', played by Paula Lane. She was introduced as Becky McDonald's ( Katherine Kelly) half-sister, making her on-screen debut on 26 August 201 ...
(
Paula Lane
Paula Lane (born 17 April 1986) is an English actress. She is known for portraying the role of Kylie Platt in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' from 2010 to 2016.
Early life
Lane is originally from Hebden Bridge near Halifax. Lane attende ...
). While they drink together in the Rovers, Ryan offers Kylie some
cocaine
Cocaine (from , from , ultimately from Quechuan languages, Quechua: ''kúka'') is a central nervous system (CNS) stimulant mainly recreational drug use, used recreationally for its euphoria, euphoric effects. It is primarily obtained from t ...
, but she declines and he takes it alone in the toilets. Michelle discovers this and reports him to the police; Ryan is released with a caution. Ryan later tries conning Steve into giving him some money, but it does not work. Ryan gets a job at the local kebab shop with
Tracy Barlow
Tracy Lynette McDonald (also Barlow, Preston, Cropper and Langton) is a fictional character and a main antagonist from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 24 January 1977. S ...
(
Kate Ford
Kate Ford (born 29 December 1976) is an English actress. She is known for her portrayal of Tracy Barlow in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' (2002–2007, 2010–present).
Ford was born in Salford, Greater Manchester. She attended Quee ...
), who tries to seduce Ryan. They have sex and Tracy tells him that she is pregnant; they decide to move to
Scotland
Scotland (, ) is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. Covering the northern third of the island of Great Britain, mainland Scotland has a border with England to the southeast and is otherwise surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean to the ...
with Tracy and Steve's daughter,
Amy Barlow
Amy Barlow (also Patience Cropper and Amy McDonald) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Elle Mulvaney. She was born on screen during the episode broadcast on 9 February 2004. To date, th ...
(
Elle Mulvaney
Elle Jade Mulvaney (born 1 October 2002) is an English actress who has played the role of Amy Barlow in ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street
''Coronation Street'' is an English soap opera created by Granada Television and shown on ITV since ...
). Tracy confesses to Ryan that she was lying; he gets high and plays
chicken
The chicken (''Gallus gallus domesticus'') is a domesticated junglefowl species, with attributes of wild species such as the grey and the Ceylon junglefowl that are originally from Southeastern Asia. Rooster or cock is a term for an adult m ...
on the road with Sophie. As Ryan walks across the road, Sophie pushes him out of the way of an oncoming car and is knocked down. Sophie falls unconscious and Ryan runs away, worried that he will get into trouble for being in possession of drugs. Sophie lies to the police, stating that she cannot remember what happened, before warning Ryan that she will not tell the police if he stops taking drugs; he agrees.
Ryan grows closer to
Katy Armstrong
Katy Armstrong is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', played by Georgia May Foote. She made her first appearance during the episode broadcast on 30 July 2010. Foote had previously appeared in the soap in ...
(
Georgia May Foote
Georgia May Foote (born 11 February 1991) is an English actress and model. She is best known for playing Alison Simmons in the BBC school drama series ''Grange Hill'' from 2005 to 2008 and Katy Armstrong in the ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ...
), who gets a job working in the kebab shop. She develops feelings for Ryan and sabotages his date with
Steph Britton
''Coronation Street'' is a British soap opera first broadcast on Friday 9 December 1960. The following is a list of characters that first appeared in 2013, by order of first appearance. All characters were introduced by series producer, Phil Col ...
(Tisha Merry). When Ryan confronts her, she kisses him and they begin an affair. Katy's boyfriend,
Chesney Brown
Chesney Brown (also Battersby-Brown) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', played by Sam Aston. He made his first on-screen appearance on 10 November 2003. The character is named after the singer, Ches ...
(
Sam Aston
Samuel David Aston (born 7 June 1993) is an English actor, who has portrayed the role of Chesney Brown on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' since 2003.
Career
Aston made his television debut at the age of five, as an extra in ''Eddie ...
), dislikes their friendship and feuds with Ryan. Chesney discovers the affair and ends his relationship with Katy, so she and Ryan begin a public relationship. Ryan struggles with a serious relationship and caring for Katy's young son, Joseph Brown (Lucca-Owen Warwick). When Katy spots Ryan with a random woman, Jamie-Lee (Kate Holderness), she ends their relationship. Steve then advises Ryan to find a long-term job, which makes Ryan realise there is nothing left for him in Weatherfield. He contacts a friend, who offers him a job as a DJ in
Ibiza
Ibiza (natively and officially in ca, Eivissa, ) is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea off the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. It is from the city of Valencia. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, in Spain. Its l ...
; Ryan accepts the job and leaves Weatherfield.
2018–present
Ryan returns five years later for Michelle's wedding to Robert Preston (
Tristan Gemmill
Tristan John Gemmill (born 6 June 1967) is an English actor, most notable for his roles as Dr Adam Trueman on ''Casualty (TV series), Casualty'', and Robert Preston in ''Coronation Street''. He was educated at Holmewood House School, Royal Tunb ...
). When Robert's best man cancels his stag do, Ryan arranges a pop star-themed party, where he clashes with Alex, now known as Ali (now played by
James Burrows
James Edward Burrows (born December 30, 1940), sometimes known as Jim "Jimmy" Burrows, is an American television director who has been working in television since the 1970s.Stated in interview on ''Inside the Actors Studio'' Burrows has direct ...
). On Michelle's wedding day, Ryan goes missing but is collected from a house by Robert and Daniel Osbourne (
Rob Mallard
Robert Stephen Mallard (born 19 May 1992) is an English actor from Manchester, England, best known for playing Daniel Osbourne in the long-running ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''.
Career
On 14 September 2016, it was announced that Mallard ...
). Ryan explains that he has had sex with a married woman and when her husband arrives, Ryan claims that Robert had sex with her so he punches Robert. After the wedding, Ryan decides to stay in Weatherfield. He applies for a job at Underworld but is eventually gets a job as a waiter at the restaurant Speed Daal. Ryan is sacked after spying on
Kayla Clifton
''Coronation Street'' is a British soap opera first broadcast on 9 December 1960. The following is a list of characters introduced in 2018, by order of first appearance. All characters are introduced by series producer Kate Oates or her successor ...
(Mollie Winnard) with
Bethany Platt
Bethany Platt is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 4 June 2000. She was played by Mia Cookson in 2000 and by twins Amy and Emily Walton from 2000 ...
(
Lucy Fallon
Lucy Fallon (born 13 November 1995) is an English actress. She played Bethany Platt in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' (2015–2020). The role has earned her widespread recognition and several accolades, including two British Soap Awa ...
), but she secures Ryan a job as a labourer with
Gary Windass
Gary Windass is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Mikey North. He made his first appearance on November 14, 2008, the same episode where his parents Eddie (Steve Huison) and Anna Windass (Deb ...
(
Mikey North
Michael "Mikey" North (born 27 September 1986) is an English actor best known for his role as Gary Windass in the ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'' since 2008.
Early life
North was born in the Cayton area of Scarborough and began acting a ...
). He arrives late on his first day and leaves early after completing the wrong job, angering Gary.
Ryan asks Bethany on a date and they have dinner at Michelle's flat. As they get intimate, Bethany suffers a panic attack and hits Ryan several times. She rushes out, which is seen by her mother,
Sarah Platt
Sarah-Louise Barlow (also Platt, Tilsley and Grimshaw) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 2 February 1987. She was played by Leah King in 1987 an ...
(
Tina O'Brien
Tina Michelle O'Brien (born 7 August 1983) is an English actress. She is best known for her portrayal of Sarah Platt in the long-running ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' (1999–2008, 2015–present). She also appeared in the BBC One drama s ...
), who presumes that Ryan attacked Bethany and attacks him, leaving him hospitalised. When he awakens, he cannot remember any details about the attack. When Ryan remembers the attack, he begins blackmailing Sarah for money. Ryan decides to return to
Ibiza
Ibiza (natively and officially in ca, Eivissa, ) is a Spanish island in the Mediterranean Sea off the eastern coast of the Iberian Peninsula. It is from the city of Valencia. It is the third largest of the Balearic Islands, in Spain. Its l ...
but changes his mind after speaking with Michelle. Sarah stands up to Ryan, so he stops blackmailing her and resumes his friendship with Bethany.
In October 2018, Ryan and Michelle become involved in a feud with gangster Ronan Truman ( Alan McKenna) after Ryan is present when his son, Cormac, overdoses on drugs but Ryan does not call an ambulance, fearing that Cormac will be sent to prison. After Ronan threatens the Connors after going to Cormac's funeral, Michelle drives her, Ryan and Ali out of Weatherfield, only to be chased by Ronan. After a car chase, the car breaks down, due to Tracy damaging it in a bid to get mechanic Abi Franklin (
Sally Carman
Sally Carman-Duttine is an English actress. She is known for portraying the roles of Kelly Maguire in the Channel 4 comedy-drama series '' Shameless'' (2005–2013), and Abi Franklin in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' (2017–presen ...
) in trouble, and Ryan tries to face Ronan himself but is knocked down by his car. As Michelle and Ali tend to Ryan's bloodied body, Leanne sees the commotion, but Ronan reverses and hits her with his car too, before crashing the car himself. Ronan is impaled by a sharp piece of wood, which Ali rips out of him as he states that he will continue to make the Connors suffer, killing Ronan.
As Ryan begins to recover in hospital, Bethany begins to realise her true feelings for Ryan. When Ryan returns home, he and Bethany kiss, and they begin dating. When a traumatized Ali begins taking his anger out on everyone, especially Ryan, Michelle, and Robert, he flirts with Bethany, and Ryan goes to punch him, as Michelle and Robert walk into the bistro. Robert accidentally lets it slip that Ali killed Ronan to Ryan, and Ryan confronts a beaten-up Ali after he gets into a fight, as Ali was criticising Ryan for Cormac's death, and Ryan argues with Michelle and Robert as they defend Ali.
Casting
Thompson auditioned for the role of
Cameron McIntyre
Cameron McIntyre (born 3 June 1981) is a rugby union player who played for Canterbury in the Air New Zealand Cup and for the Crusaders in Super Rugby. His time spent at Canterbury and the Crusaders saw him keep Andrew Mehrtens on the bench with ...
in 2006, however the producers asked him to audition for the part of Ryan Connor instead. His audition was successful and he was given a six-month contract, along with the option to extend it for up to a year. Thompson billed his character as "mischievous" and said that he is "not a bad lad, but he's not a good lad either." Series editor Garth Philips teased the Connor family, calling them "a twenty-first century ''Coronation Street'' family". He said that the family are "a joy to watch on screen" and the audience would be "enthralled and excited by them". Thompson made his debut appearance as Ryan on 30 August 2006.
Development
Early storylines
In October 2007, it was announced that an upcoming storyline would involve
Michelle Connor
Michelle Connor (also McDonald) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by former Hear'Say singer, Kym Marsh. The character first appeared on-screen during the episode airing on 3 April 2006. ...
(
Kym Marsh
Kimberley Gail Ratcliff (''née'' Marsh, previously Ryder and Lomas; born 13 June 1976) is an English actress, television presenter and singer. In 2001, she won a place in the band Hear'Say as a result of appearing on the reality television ser ...
) finding out that Ryan may not be her son. A show insider told the '' Daily Star'': "Can there really be anything more traumatic for a parent to have to endure?" The storyline ended in early 2008 and was not mentioned since. Speaking of the storyline Ben Thompson said: "It's weird that for such a massive storyline it never came to anything, It's been one of those very weird ones in terms of that storyline. It's sort of been forgotten and I don't understand how and if they are going to follow it up."
In 2009, Ryan began a relationship with
Sian Powers
Sian Powers is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Sacha Parkinson. Sian was introduced as a love interest for Sophie Webster (Brooke Vincent). Sian joined the cast of ''Coronation Street'' al ...
(
Sacha Parkinson
Sacha Louise Parkinson (born 11 March 1992) is an English actress, known for her role as Sian Powers on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''.
Early life
Sacha Louise Parkinson was born on 11 March 1992 in Salford, Greater Manchester, the ...
). Thompson filmed his first screen kiss with her. He said of the experience, "It was bizarre because Sacha had done one before and I hadn't. I knew the line I had to say and then kiss her. I knew it every time, and every time I said it I was shaking." He continued, "Oh it was dreadful. I mean I don't get nervous when I go on stage or anything like that, but it was just bizarre. It was one of those things that I got really nervous about." Upon his 2012 return, it was announced that Ryan would embark on a relationship with an older woman.
Departure (2010)
In August 2010, it was rumoured that ''Coronation Street'' producer
Phil Collinson
Philip Collinson (born 26 August 1970) is a British television producer. He was initially an actor, before switching to working behind the cameras in the industry as a script editor and writer on programmes such as ''Springhill'' and ''Emmerda ...
was considering axing a number of the younger cast including Ryan,
Chesney Battersby-Brown
Chesney Brown (also Battersby-Brown) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'', played by Sam Aston. He made his first on-screen appearance on 10 November 2003. The character is named after the singer, Che ...
(
Sam Aston
Samuel David Aston (born 7 June 1993) is an English actor, who has portrayed the role of Chesney Brown on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'' since 2003.
Career
Aston made his television debut at the age of five, as an extra in ''Eddie ...
) and
Gary Windass
Gary Windass is a fictional character from the British soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by Mikey North. He made his first appearance on November 14, 2008, the same episode where his parents Eddie (Steve Huison) and Anna Windass (Deb ...
(
Mikey North
Michael "Mikey" North (born 27 September 1986) is an English actor best known for his role as Gary Windass in the ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'' since 2008.
Early life
North was born in the Cayton area of Scarborough and began acting a ...
) because he feared that the show was becoming more like
Channel 4
Channel 4 is a British free-to-air public broadcast television network operated by the state-owned enterprise, state-owned Channel Four Television Corporation. It began its transmission on 2 November 1982 and was established to provide a four ...
soap opera
A soap opera, or ''soap'' for short, is a typically long-running radio or television serial, frequently characterized by melodrama, ensemble casts, and sentimentality. The term "soap opera" originated from radio dramas originally being sponsored ...
''
Hollyoaks
''Hollyoaks'' is a British soap opera which began airing on Channel 4 on 23 October 1995. It was created by Phil Redmond, who had previously conceived the soap opera ''Brookside (TV series), Brookside''. Since 2005, episodes have been aired on ...
''. On-screen Ryan chose to attend a Scottish university and he departed in October. The character's departure was confirmed but the producers denied that they had axed Ryan. An ITV spokesperson said: "Ryan hasn't been axed from the show and is still very much a part of
Michelle Connor
Michelle Connor (also McDonald) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by former Hear'Say singer, Kym Marsh. The character first appeared on-screen during the episode airing on 3 April 2006. ...
's life. There are plans to see him in future episodes when he returns from university for holidays. In October 2010, Thompson said of his departure: "It wasn't my choice to leave Coronation Street," he said. "But a new producer came in and wanted to shake things up. I am one of the characters that sadly wasn't part of the plan. Ryan is being sent off to university and can come back, but I don't know if that will happen for the foreseeable future. I am sad, because it has been the biggest part of my life for the past four years. It has given me the freedom to work on my music, though. Writing music is something I have always done, but I've never been able to focus on it before because I had to do Coronation Street. It's nice to be able to do something completely different to acting. Kym Marsh revealed that she was upset over Thompson's departure as they were both very close.
Reintroduction (2012)
In March 2012, Simon Boyle of the ''
Daily Mirror
The ''Daily Mirror'' is a British national daily tabloid. Founded in 1903, it is owned by parent company Reach plc. From 1985 to 1987, and from 1997 to 2002, the title on its masthead was simply ''The Mirror''. It had an average daily print ...
'' reported that Ryan would be returning to ''Coronation Street''. Boyle said Ryan would return as "a very dark character" who has a "damaging impact" on the soap's younger residents. The character's return was not confirmed until 17 May 2012. Sol Heras took over the role from Thompson, after he chose not to return to the soap. A writer for
itv.com
itv.com is the main website of ITV plc, the UK's largest commercial television broadcaster which operates 13 out of 15 regions on the ITV network under the ITV brand (or the UTV brand in Northern Ireland). The website offers online streaming, ...
stated that Ryan returns home unexpectedly after he is thrown out of university. Series producer Collinson said "Ryan returns carrying a dark secret and Michelle is going to have the fight of her life as she battles to get her troubled son back on the straight and narrow. Sol is a brilliant young actor and I'm so excited to welcome him to the cast." Asked about his audition Sol Heras said: "I thought initially that it would be quite a long, drawn-out process, but it all happened quite quickly! I had my first audition with the casting department, and then I heard later that I'd made it onto the longlist of actors that they were considering. After that, I made it onto the shortlist, which to me was an achievement in itself. I then had a screen test with
Kym Marsh
Kimberley Gail Ratcliff (''née'' Marsh, previously Ryder and Lomas; born 13 June 1976) is an English actress, television presenter and singer. In 2001, she won a place in the band Hear'Say as a result of appearing on the reality television ser ...
and
Brooke Vincent
Brooke Levi Vincent (born 4 June 1992) is an English actress, known for her portrayal of Sophie Webster in the ITV soap-opera ''Coronation Street'', which she played from 2004 to 2019.
Early life
Vincent was born in Audenshaw, Greater Manche ...
. Six days later, my agent phoned me to tell me that I'd got the part - so that was one of the best phone calls I've ever had."
Drug abuse
In May 2012, it was rumoured that once Ryan would return he would now be a much darker character and would become involved in a drug storyline with
Sophie Webster
Sophie Webster is a Character (arts), fictional character from the Television in the United Kingdom, British ITV (TV network), ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''. She was born on-screen during the episode broadcast on 4 November 1994. She was ...
(
Brooke Vincent
Brooke Levi Vincent (born 4 June 1992) is an English actress, known for her portrayal of Sophie Webster in the ITV soap-opera ''Coronation Street'', which she played from 2004 to 2019.
Early life
Vincent was born in Audenshaw, Greater Manche ...
).
Kym Marsh
Kimberley Gail Ratcliff (''née'' Marsh, previously Ryder and Lomas; born 13 June 1976) is an English actress, television presenter and singer. In 2001, she won a place in the band Hear'Say as a result of appearing on the reality television ser ...
who plays
Michelle Connor
Michelle Connor (also McDonald) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', portrayed by former Hear'Say singer, Kym Marsh. The character first appeared on-screen during the episode airing on 3 April 2006. ...
confirmed the storyline in June 2012, Marsh said: "Ryan's been off doing his own thing, and has got heavily involved in drugs. Michelle expected him to come back as the same kid he was before he went away, but that's not going to happen." Asked how difficult this experience will be for Michelle, the actress replied: "Very hard. Michelle's got her work cut out trying to get Ryan back on the straight and narrow, but we'll see her get support from outside influences." Speaking of the storyline
Sol Heras
Sol Heras (born 8 October 1987) is an English actor. He was the second actor to portray the character Ryan Connor in the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street'', from 2012 until 2013. He replaced Ben Thompson, and in turn was replaced by Ryan Pr ...
said: "It's a very serious storyline but in the real world it does happen. As long as it's done professionally and done well, it's great. I think it'll be good for young people to see the consequences that come from drugs. You'll see that the drugs are the reason that Ryan is falling out with everyone and causing trouble. There's a loneliness to Ryan because no-one really trusts him. It just shows that it's a bad way to go." Speaking of being compared to Ben Thompson (who previously portrayed Ryan) he said: "Ryan is not the way he was before and he's picked up bad habits, so that's enabled me to come in and essentially be a fresh character, He's changed so much that I didn't have to stick to how the previous actor had played him, which really helps when you're coming into a new show."
Relationship with Katy Armstrong
While Ryan and Katy are running an errand together, their van breaks down and Katy and Ryan end up sharing a kiss. The following month, Foote teased the storyline during an appearance on '' Daybreak'' explaining that it begins when Katy is teased by her friends for being dull. The actress continued "It's her friend's 18th birthday, so they're having a party. They all keep taking the mick out of her, saying she's sitting at home and she's boring. She just wants to go out and have fun, and then
yan
Yan may refer to:
Chinese states
* Yan (state) (11th century – 222 BC), a major state in northern China during the Zhou dynasty
* Yan (Han dynasty kingdom), first appearing in 206 BC
* Yan (Three Kingdoms kingdom), officially claimed indepe ...
starts making a bit of a move on her!" Ryan "sees Katy in a new light" when she turns up at The Bistro for her friend's birthday, where he is DJing. Heras commented that his character has not really noticed Katy before, as she is a stay at home mother, but seeing her "dolled up" and in his environment catches his attention. Heras said "He realises how pretty she is and what a gorgeous girl she is. He manages to sort it for her to get a job at the kebab shop and yes he probably does have an ulterior motive."
Katy and Ryan start to become closer at the kebab shop and one day go in for another kiss. Foote believed that Katy had not had a "teenage wild time" because of her relationship with Chesney and their son, so her head is turned by Ryan and it is exciting for her. Foote added that Katy does not mean to hurt Chesney, but the situation with Ryan gets out of her control. Chesney later proposes to Katy in front of their family and friends at
Faye Windass
Faye Windass (also Butler) is a fictional character from the British ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'', portrayed by Ellie Leach. She was introduced as a potential adoptive child for Anna (Debbie Rush) and Eddie Windass (Steve Huison) in ...
' (
Ellie Leach
Ellie Louise Leach (born 15 March 2001) is an English actress who portrays the role of Faye Windass on the ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street.''
Early and personal life
Leach was born in Bury, Greater Manchester and she has a younger sister, D ...
) birthday party, but hours later he learns about her affair with Ryan. The '' Daily Star's'' Peter Dyke and Katie Begley reported that Chesney would confront Katy in front of their son, demanding to know whether she had sex with Ryan and threatening to beat him up. Chesney then "calls time on their romance" and throws Katy out.
Departure (2013)
On 21 July 2013, Ed Gleave and Susan Hill from the '' Daily Star'' reported that Heras had quit ''Coronation Street''. The actor left at the end of his contract, while his character left later in the year. Ryan's exit storyline saw him decide to take a job as a DJ in Ibiza, after realising that there is nothing keeping him in Weatherfield. Steve suggests that Ryan should go to Ibiza and live his life. Steve knows that Michelle is worried about Ryan so he sees it as an opportunity to solve their problems. Gregson told a reporter from ''
TV Choice
''TV Choice'' is a British weekly TV listings magazine published by H. Bauer Publishing, the UK subsidiary of family-run German company Bauer Media Group.This Morning'' presenter
Sharon Marshall
Sharon Jean Marshall (born 21 September 1971) is a British entertainment journalist and screenwriter best known for being the resident "Soap Expert" from 2003 to 2022 on ITV's '' This Morning''.
Television career
In 2006, Marshall appeared as ...
announced on 7 February 2018 that Ryan would be reintroduced during the year. Ryan returns following the reintroduction of Michelle's biological son,
Ali Neeson
The following is a list of characters that first appeared in the ITV soap opera '' Coronation Street'' in 2007, by order of first appearance.
Roger Stiles
Roger Stiles, played by Andrew Dunn, is a plumber who fixes Janice Battersby's (Vick ...
(
James Burrows
James Edward Burrows (born December 30, 1940), sometimes known as Jim "Jimmy" Burrows, is an American television director who has been working in television since the 1970s.Stated in interview on ''Inside the Actors Studio'' Burrows has direct ...
). It was unconfirmed whether Heras would reprise the role. Series producer
Kate Oates
Kate Oates (born 1979 or 1980) is a British television producer, who was born in Nottingham and graduated from Warwick University. She began her career working as a researcher and editorial assistant for Germaine Greer, before becoming a script ...
confirmed on 12 March 2018 that the role of Ryan would be recast. She told Ben Lee of ''
Digital Spy
Digital Spy (DS) is a British-based entertainment, television and film website and brand and is the largest digital property at Hearst UK. Since its launch in 1999, Digital Spy has focused on entertainment news related to television programmes, ...
'' that an actor had been cast, although she refused to reveal his identity. It was revealed on 26 March 2018 that actor Ryan Prescott had been cast in the role of Ryan. Paparazzi photographs were released showing Prescott filming with cast members
Tristan Gemmill
Tristan John Gemmill (born 6 June 1967) is an English actor, most notable for his roles as Dr Adam Trueman on ''Casualty (TV series), Casualty'', and Robert Preston in ''Coronation Street''. He was educated at Holmewood House School, Royal Tunb ...
Rob Mallard
Robert Stephen Mallard (born 19 May 1992) is an English actor from Manchester, England, best known for playing Daniel Osbourne in the long-running ITV soap opera ''Coronation Street''.
Career
On 14 September 2016, it was announced that Mallard ...
All About Soap
''All About Soap'' was a fortnightly UK magazine founded in October 1999. It was released on Tuesdays. Storylines of the shows it covers are from soap operas shown in the United Kingdom and from Australia, including '' EastEnders'', '' Coron ...
'' Laura Morgan called Ryan a "sweet, caring lad" while played by Thompson. Upon the character's return in 2012, Morgan stated that he was "rebellious" and "a lazy oik".
itv.com
itv.com is the main website of ITV plc, the UK's largest commercial television broadcaster which operates 13 out of 15 regions on the ITV network under the ITV brand (or the UTV brand in Northern Ireland). The website offers online streaming, ...