Coronation Street legend dies aged 89 as tributes pour in for star

Alan Rothwell has died aged 89, with Coronation Street paying tribute to one of the soap's original stars more than six decades after its first episode aired.

The actor portrayed David Barlow in the ITV programme and appeared in Coronation Street's inaugural broadcast in December 1960.

Mr Rothwell's character was the brother of Ken Barlow, who remains a fixture on the cobbles to this day. The soap confirmed his death on Thursday through its official social media channels.

Born in Oldham, Lancashire, Mr Rothwell became part of television history when Tony Warren's creation first appeared on British screens more than 60 years ago.

Prior to landing his breakthrough role, Mr Rothwell had already established himself in radio drama, voicing Jimmy Grange in The Archers.

His time as David Barlow spanned eight years, although his appearances were intermittent.

After initially serving as a regular cast member from December 1960 until June 1961, he departed the programme before returning for occasional episodes in 1963 and 1964.

The actor later resumed the role full-time before making his final appearance in 1968.

David Barlow was later killed off-screen two years after the actor's departure from the soap.

The Barlow brothers were portrayed as very different personalities, with Ken passionate about literature while David pursued a professional football career before an injury forced him into early retirement.

Following his departure from Weatherfield, Mr Rothwell continued to work extensively across British television.

He joined Channel 4's Brookside shortly after its launch in 1985, initially appearing as a community lawyer before later taking on the role of Nicholas Black.

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The actor also appeared several times in Emmerdale, portraying a judge in 1993 before later playing John Kenyon between 1997 and 1998.

His other television credits included Casualty and Heartbeat, where he portrayed Reverend Jackson.

Coronation Street paid tribute to the actor on X, writing: "We're very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell's passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this very sad time.

"He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members of Coronation Street."

Ms Samia Longchambon, who plays Maria Connor in the soap, also shared her memories of the late actor.

She wrote: "So sad to hear this. Alan was also a drama teacher at our drama school and I have such fond memories of being taught by him... he was a wonderful man."

Fans of the star have been leaving their own heartfelt tributes online.

"Used to watch him on Hickory’s House, so sad, RIP Alan," one fan posted on X, as another added: "I remember him from Corrie but also pantomimes in Hunstanton which were hilarious! RIP Alan & thoughts to his family!"

A third fan posted: "RIP Alan. My mum & grandma used to visit his mum when they worked in the mills in Shaw."

Another added: "REST IN PEACE ALAN."

Someone else penned: "This is sad news. R.I.P.".