Chris Gascoyne has told fans he is "back" in an Instagram post that appears to tease his return to TV screens, three years after he left ITV's Coronation Street.
A 23-Year Stint as Peter Barlow
The actor is best known for playing Peter Barlow in the ITV soap on and off for 23 years. Peter was born on-screen during an episode broadcast on 5 April 1965, alongside his twin sister Susan, and Chris was the seventh actor to take on the role.
Chris first appeared as Peter in 2000 during the soap's 40th anniversary live episode. He left the role in 2003, returned for a brief stint in 2007, and then came back full-time in 2008.
In January 2014, it was confirmed Chris would be leaving again, but the following year he reprised the part for two episodes for the funeral of Deirdre Barlow, played by Anne Kirkbride. In 2016, it was announced Peter would be returning to Weatherfield, and Chris remained in the role from then on.
Exit in 2023
His time on the cobbles came to an end in December 2023. Peter's final scenes saw him leave Weatherfield following his involvement in the death of serial killer Stephen Reid, which also led to a split from his on-screen partner, Carla Connor.
Chris had confirmed his departure in July 2023 to focus on other projects and spend more time with his family, though the soap has left the door open for a potential return. Since leaving, he has appeared in All Creatures Great and Small for its sixth series last year.
New Role in The Northumbria Mysteries
Now, Chris has shared a glimpse of his next project on Instagram, with a photo from filming alongside Robson Green and another of him wearing a microphone in a pub. "I’m back – lots to catch up on…" he captioned the post.
He is expected to star in the upcoming daytime drama The Northumbria Mysteries. The series, led by Robson Green, follows Joe Ruby, an ex-convict and gambler who teams up with Oxford-educated DI Rose O'Connell to solve crimes in the region.
Soap Stars and Fans Show Support
His former on-screen partner Jane Danson, who plays Leanne Battersby in Corrie, responded: "[heart emojis] So proud of you." Vinta Morgan, who plays Ronnie Bailey, commented: "My G," while Joe Duttine, who plays Tim Metcalfe, posted: "Ah.....there she is..."
Fans were equally enthusiastic. @gubgub2018 said: "Well it’s about flipping time!!" @coira_2011 wrote: "The legend is back." @parksy_1878 replied: "Aww welcome back Chris." @drshantella shared: "Woohoo! Missed you... over the moon you're back!" @janet.potter.5667901 added: "Yess! Great news."
