Former Coronation Street actor Emrhys Cooper is barely recognisable from his on-screen persona, having undergone a dramatic style transformation nearly a year after departing the iconic ITV soap.
From Cobbles Cult Leader to Courtroom Drama
Devotees of the Manchester-based drama will remember Cooper's character, Rowan Cunliffe, who arrived on the cobbles in early 2024 as the charismatic and manipulative leader of The Institute. Rowan first ensnared Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) into his self-help group before convincing her to recruit Amy Barlow (Elle Mulvaney) and invest her inheritance into the organisation.
The storyline reached its climax when Leanne discovered incriminating files on Rowan's computer, revealing not only an affair between Toyah and Nick but also Rowan's blackmail scheme against them. Evidence provided by Nick Tilsley led to Rowan's arrest in December 2024.
Following a tense court case where Leanne, Nick, and Amy testified against him, Rowan was found guilty of fraud and blackmail. The verdict was celebrated by several Weatherfield residents at the Rovers Return, marking the end of his sinister reign.
Life After the Street: Panto and Prime Video
Since leaving the soap, Cooper has kept busy with a variety of acting projects. Shortly after his Corrie exit, he swapped Weatherfield for the stage, playing Prince Frederick in a pantomime production of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs at St Helens Theatre Royal in Liverpool in December 2024.
The actor, who originally hails from Devon and previously lived in America, appears to have returned across the Atlantic. He has since landed roles in US streaming series, including a part as Damien in Hollywood Heartthrob on Prime Video.
He is currently starring in the tenth season of the Emmy-winning drama series The Bay, also available on Prime Video, showcasing his range beyond the confines of a soap opera villain.
A Striking New Look for a New Chapter
Cooper's physical transformation since his Corrie days is striking. Gone is the long, bleached blonde hair synonymous with cult leader Rowan. He now sports a much shorter, darker hairstyle and has trimmed his full beard down to a neat moustache, often accessorising with a single gold hoop earring.
The actor recently shared snaps on Instagram from The Bay premiere and from his training for an Iron Man challenge, which involved open-water swimming. His refreshed appearance has drawn considerable praise from fans and followers on social media.
Comments on his posts have ranged from "Handsome" and "Gorgeous as ever, darling" to observations that he looks "younger by the day," with one fan dubbing him the "Cutest Iron Man ever."
Coronation Street continues to air on ITV and ITVX on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.
