Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd is set to temporarily swap the cobbles for a new role this Christmas, appearing as the Prince in Venue Cymru's Sleeping Beauty pantomime in Llandudno.
The actor, best known for playing David Platt in the ITV soap, was recast in the role at 12 years old in 2000 and has now spent 26 years on the show. Earlier this year, he won ITV's Celebrity Big Brother, marking his first reality TV appearance.
Pantomime debut announced
It was revealed earlier this year that Shepherd would make his pantomime debut in Wales, starring alongside John Evans and Simon Neehan. The production begins on December 12 and runs until January 2, 2027.
In a statement, Shepherd said: "I’m delighted to be joining the cast in Llandudno this festive season and can’t wait to entertain audiences in this year's pantomime."
Venue Cymru shared the news on Instagram, announcing that Shepherd would star in the "spectacular Christmas pantomime" produced with Imagine Theatre.
Reaction from fans and colleagues
Shepherd responded to the announcement on social media, writing: "This. This will be a masterpiece." His wife, Hanni Treweek, commented: "I’m married to a Prince!! always so proud of you." A former Corrie colleague added a classic panto quip: "Oh no he’s not," while Emmerdale actress Michelle Hardwick replied: "Little Panto trip @thekatebrooks is in order here."
In a new video, Shepherd was seen in his regal gold and red costume and explained why he could now take part in a pantomime after more than two decades on the soap.
Why now?
"It was the first time I've been released [by Corrie] to be able to do pantomime," he said. "So I'm contracted to Coronation Street and you have to leave if you want to go and do pantos. Luckily, they agreed to let me go and do it and still stay in the show. So it's a win, win!"
Shepherd also joked about his costume on Instagram, commenting: "I always aim to keep it subtle." Fans reacted enthusiastically, with one writing: "Can’t wait to come and see you Jack," and another saying they had tickets for Christmas Eve. Others wished him luck and praised the costume, with one fan writing: "Perfect!! The costume absolutely suits you."
