Coronation Street star Jonathan Howard has revealed that a show he previously starred in is now available to stream on Netflix, but there is a catch, as he also paid tribute to a late actor he starred alongside.
As fans know, the actor joined the ITV soap, which is filmed in Salford, last year in the role of Carl Webster, and the character's arrival in Weatherfield is the first time viewers have ever seen him, with the younger half-sibling of Kevin and Debbie Webster having only been mentioned by name previously.
However, months after his arrival, following an affair with Abi Webster and other trouble-causing shenanigans, it was revealed that Carl was actually Debbie's son, with the truth coming out as she took the blame for him following a horror crash in January that caused the death of Weatherfield vicar, Billy Mayhew.
Carl's secret and exit from Weatherfield
Carl discovered the truth as he admitted his guilt over the horror crash, which took place in January and claimed the life of vicar Billy Mayhew, as he was letting Debbie take the blame after he coldly pulled her from the passenger side into the driver's seat at the time of the incident to make it seem like she was behind the wheel.
Eventually, with her health suffering, Debbie, who had been imprisoned for Billy's death, was freed following a successful appeal, and while she was led to believe that Carl wanted to make amends and work on a relationship. However, his true motives were uncovered, with him just after money, and Debbie sent him packing from Weatherfield.
Jonathan Howard's Netflix tribute
However, Debbie ended up having a change of heart when Carl ended up close to death. He was among the five possible victims of a murder which rocked the cobbles in April. It was confirmed back in February that either Carl, Theo Silverton, Jodie Ramsey, Megan Walsh or Maggie Driscoll would meet a deadly end on the night of Lisa and Carla Connor-Swain's wedding day.
He's since seemingly vowed to turn things around, and things have been quieter of late for Carl on the cobbles. But away from his current role, actor Jonathan has been reminded of another of his acting credits.
Sharing pictures from his stint in the American action drama series, The Last Ship, on Instagram, the Hollywood-turned-soap star said on Instagram: "@netflix just started streaming #thelastship and it’s made me all nostalgic. I loved working on this show with these people. Filming in LA at culver studios where they made Citizen Kane was a real pinch me moment."
"Me and @jodiesmith started at the same time so immediately became an alliance. Getting to play with @bridgetregan and be @realericdane competition for her attention was a gift and a delight . Being schooled in all things martial arts by @brenfosterreal was painful [crying laughing emoji] and listening to the daily banter between @jockosims and @kevin_m_martin. Steven Kane thank you for giving me this experience!"
He added, referring to the death of Grey's Anatomy star Eric Dane: "Eric Dane was the leader of this motley crew, and I will always remember that night in San Diego having one too many beers with him. Good times. Rest in peace Mr Dane [heart emoji]."
Fan reaction to Netflix availability
Fans were quick to show their support, but some pointed out it's not available for those in the UK. @thewilldennis said: "Just watched it actually and loved seeing you do your thing. You did great. Was an awesome surprise to see you as I enjoyed the show." @majorwolf1999 commented: "The Last Ship is the greatest series I've ever seen. I love you all, Cobra Team."
@nicoftime01 demanded: "@netflixuk please add The Last Ship." @libbie.buttress admitted: "nahh why have i onlt just seen this what an insane crossover." @olilee86 added: "I remember this!!!! Brilliant!!!!"
