Samia Longchambon, best known for her role as Maria Connor on Coronation Street, once had a real-life romance with a fellow cast member. The actress has been a staple of the ITV soap since 2000, quickly becoming a fan favorite. Over the years, her character has been involved in numerous dramatic storylines, particularly regarding love interests.
Current Storyline Drama
Currently, Maria's husband Gary (Mikey North) is hiding something significant from her. His secretive behavior and sudden closeness with Sarah (Tina O'Brien) have not gone unnoticed. In Tuesday's episode (June 16), Maria caught Sarah and Gary hugging. Later, she confided in Izzy (Cherylee Houston) and Fiz (Jennie McAlpine), expressing her suspicion that Sarah and Gary are having an affair, as reported by the Mirror.
Samia's Happy Family Life
Away from the cobbles, Samia is happily married to French professional ice skater Sylvain Longchambon. The couple met on Dancing on Ice in 2013 and wed in August 2016. They have a son, Yves Joseph Longchambon, born in 2015. Samia also has a daughter from her previous marriage to property developer Matthew Smith, born in October 2009.
Past Romance with Co-Star
Before Sylvain, Samia dated Coronation Street co-star Will Thorp. They met on set, where their characters—hairdresser Maria Connor and bad boy Chris Gray—were also romantically involved on screen. The couple moved in together but split in December 2012, during Samia's training for Dancing on Ice.
A friend told the Sunday People at the time: "Samia is happily single. The relationship just fizzled out and ran its course. Will was having to spend a lot of time down south and working away while Samia is still living up north." Another source added: "Samia and Will seemed very settled after the initial fuss. They seemed happy and enjoyed home life. But sadly they grew apart."
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
