Former Coronation Street star Rupert Hill has made a striking and unexpected return to the acting world, over fifteen years after he left the iconic cobbles to become a pub landlord in Manchester.
From Soap Heartthrob to Publican
Rupert Hill, now 47, was best known to millions for playing Jamie Baldwin on ITV's Coronation Street between 2004 and 2008. His character, the son of Danny Baldwin (played by Bradley Walsh), was involved in dramatic storylines, including a controversial affair with his step-mother Frankie, portrayed by Deborah Stephenson.
However, Hill chose to step away from the spotlight at the end of the last decade, swapping scripts for spirits. He embarked on a successful new career in hospitality, co-owning and running several well-known Manchester pubs with his wife, former co-star Jenny Platt. Their portfolio included establishments like the Castle Hotel, Gulliver's, and the Eagle Inn.
He previously explained his passion for the trade to the Manchester Evening News, stating: 'From day one, we've found this shared passion for taking weary and underperforming pubs with bags of potential and breathing new life into them, bringing them back into the community.' He also announced the opening of another venue, #lloyds in Chorlton, on Instagram last year.
A Gradual Return to the Stage and Screen
Despite his success in business, the lure of performance never fully faded. Hill has been gradually making his way back to acting in recent months. His most notable project is the short film Operation Magpie, which he not only starred in but also co-directed.
For the film, he teamed up with fellow Coronation Street alumnus Julie Hesmondhalgh, famed for her long-running role as Hayley Cropper. The film is now available to watch on YouTube.
His return has also been marked by several theatre appearances in Manchester. Earlier this month, he performed in the Christmas show Tinsel at The Edge theatre. This follows other stage work including The Fire Raisers at the Hope Mill Theatre in September. He also directed the touring production of Mike Bartlett's play COCK.
Life in Manchester and Lasting Legacy
Hill's connection to Manchester, where Coronation Street is filmed, proved permanent. After his stint on the soap, he loved the city so much he bought a home there, settling in the trendy Northern Quarter. He is married to Jenny Platt, who played his on-screen love interest Violet Wilson.
Fans have recently been reminded of his soap origins with repeats of classic episodes on ITV. Sharing a picture of his younger self as Jamie on social media, he quipped: 'This young whippersnapper just made his first appearance (again) on the cobbles in #classiccorrie. I think he might get up to some mischief!!'
Prior to his Corrie fame, Hill's acting credits included roles in Hollyoaks, Midsomer Murders, and a four-part special of The Bill titled Gun Runner in 2008, where he played criminal Kieran Wallace. His diversified career from heartthrob to publican and back to actor showcases a remarkable and unexpected professional journey.
