Aaron McCusker in Hope Street / BBC Northern Ireland
Aaron McCusker has been cast as the new landlord of the Rovers Return in Coronation Street, it has been emerged.
The iconic boozer is currently up for sale by reluctant owner Carla Connor (Alison King), and previous reports have identified Eva Price – played by Catherine Tyldesley, returning to the soap after seven years – as the new landlady.
According to The Sun, Eva will be joined on the cobbles by her husband, who will be played by Northern Irish actor McCusker, 46, known for Shameless and Hope Street, as well as playing the boyfriend of Freddie Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody.
Speaking about the character, whose name is not currently known, a source told the newspaper: “[Producers] took their time looking for the perfect actor to play her husband to Eva as she makes her return to Corrie as the new boss of the Rovers.
“When Aaron walked in, and once paired with Catherine, bosses knew they had the perfect partnership to run the soap’s iconic pub. Aaron will bring his Irish charm to the pub, and the chemistry between him and Cath is electric.
“[The characters] are both very happy and loved-up. But Aaron’s character is also someone not to be messed with, and the locals are going to be in for a shock if they think they can take advantage of his good nature and that cheeky Irish charm.
“It’s the start of an exciting new chapter in the pub’s history.”
The pair are due to arrive in Weatherfield this autumn.
