Original Coronation Street Ryan Connor Actor Ben Thompson Now Embraces Music Career
Ben Thompson, the actor who originally portrayed Ryan Connor on the long-running ITV soap Coronation Street, has embarked on a very different professional path since departing the show. Thompson played the character from 2006 to 2010, during which Ryan's complex storyline unfolded on the Cobbles.
Ryan Connor's Dramatic Introduction and Storyline
Ryan Connor first appeared on Coronation Street in 2006 after being located by his biological parents, Nick and Wendy Neeson. The character's backstory involved a hospital mix-up, meaning Michelle Connor and Dean had raised him as their own child, while their biological son Alex Neeson was raised elsewhere. This revelation created significant tension, with Ryan harbouring resentment towards Michelle for not recognising him as her son, while also rejecting his biological parents. Despite these conflicts, Ryan eventually settled on the Cobbles and secured employment working for Debbie Webster at the Chariot Square Hotel.
Ben Thompson's Departure and Succession in the Role
Ben Thompson portrayed Ryan Connor until 2010. The character was later recast, with Sol Heras taking over when Ryan returned briefly in 2012. In 2018, Ryan Prescott assumed the role permanently and continues to play Ryan Connor to this day. Prescott's tenure has included major plotlines, most notably when Ryan became an unintended victim of an acid attack orchestrated by Daisy Midgeley's stalker Justin, which irrevocably altered his character's appearance and life trajectory.
Ben Thompson's Transition to Music and Performance
Since leaving Coronation Street, Ben Thompson has shifted his professional focus entirely away from acting. He now works as a vocalist, performing in various musical settings. His primary work includes being part of a Frank Sinatra tribute act, where he sings at weddings, celebrations, and holiday camp events. Thompson's repertoire has expanded to include BritPop numbers and acoustic performances, showcasing his versatility as a singer.
Ryan Prescott on the Acid Attack Storyline's Impact
Current Ryan Connor actor Ryan Prescott has spoken about the significance of the acid attack plotline, emphasising its realistic portrayal of long-term survival. Prescott explained that Ryan's journey involves stages of acceptance and denial as he grapples with the permanent changes to his life and interactions. The storyline aims to depict the ongoing challenges faced by acid attack survivors within the soap opera format, highlighting the character's desperation to cling to normalcy while confronting his new reality.
Coronation Street continues to air on weeknights at 8:30pm on ITV and ITV X, maintaining its place as a staple of British television drama.
