Alan Rothwell, the English actor best known for portraying David Barlow in the original cast of the ITV soap opera Coronation Street, has passed away at the age of 89. His family confirmed the news to the Press Association.
Early Life and Career
Born in Oldham in 1937, Rothwell enjoyed a prolific acting career that spanned more than seven decades. He appeared in numerous television series during the 1960s, including Gideon's Way and The Villains. His role on Coronation Street was specifically written for him by creator Tony Warren, who had previously worked with Rothwell on BBC Radio's Children's Hour during their childhoods.
Coronation Street Legacy
Rothwell played David Barlow, the brother of Ken Barlow (portrayed by William Roache), from the soap's very first episode in 1960 until 1969. He was one of the original cast members and helped establish the show's enduring popularity. William Roache paid tribute, saying: "I am very sorry to hear of Alan's passing. He and I worked together on the very first episodes of Coronation Street, which was such a wonderful time. I got to know him well over the years; he was a very good actor and a delightful man."
Later Work
Beyond Coronation Street, Rothwell appeared in the Channel 4 soap Brookside as Nicholas Black in the 1980s. He also became a familiar face to generations of children as the presenter of the long-running programmes Picture Box and Hickory House. In more recent years, he was seen in the 2013 film Alan Partridge: Alpha Papa, A Song For Jenny, and made guest appearances on Doctors, Rovers, and The Musketeers.
Family Tribute
A statement from his family said: "Alan was a professional radio, television, film and stage actor and director whose career spanned more than 70 years. Alan died peacefully in hospital following a short illness. Beyond his professional achievements, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many people whose lives he touched through his work."
A spokesperson for Coronation Street added: "We're very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell's passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this very sad time. He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members of Coronation Street."
