In a major crossover for British soap operas, former EastEnders actor Aidan O'Callaghan has officially joined the cast of Coronation Street. The Irish actor, best known for playing Lewis Butler in Albert Square, is set to appear in a dramatic new plot centred around Weatherfield's iconic Rovers Return pub.
From Albert Square to Weatherfield
The 36-year-old actor took to social media to share the exciting news with fans, posting photographs of himself outside the famous Coronation Street set. His playful caption, "Who dis?", sparked enthusiastic responses from followers, with one commenting on his return to television screens and another noting his apparent attraction to fictional bars.
O'Callaghan's move between the two rival soaps represents a significant career shift following his impactful stint on EastEnders in 2022, where his character was involved in one of the year's most gripping and controversial storylines.
Explosive New Storyline Revealed
According to insider sources, O'Callaghan's role will see him involved with the newly-introduced Driscoll family, who have taken over the Rovers Return. The family includes Ben, played by Bohemian Rhapsody actor Aaron McCusker, and his wife Eva Price, portrayed by returning actress Catherine Tyldesley.
Father Ted star Pauline McLynn completes the family unit as Ben's outspoken mother, Maggie. O'Callaghan will appear as a character named Alan in what's described as a "unique episode" featuring flashback scenes that explore the Driscoll family's history.
A source from the production revealed: "He is in one episode in flashback scenes, where we find out some of the family history from way back when Ben and his brother were children. He's just a guest artist but it's a really unique episode."
Controversial EastEnders Past
During his time on EastEnders, O'Callaghan portrayed Lewis Butler, a character whose storyline took dark and disturbing turns. Initially introduced as the charming manager of The Prince Albert, Lewis developed friendships with Callum Highway and Ben Mitchell before the narrative took a serious turn.
In distressing scenes that addressed important social issues, Lewis sexually assaulted Ben Mitchell after his advances were rejected. The storyline continued with Ben confronting his attacker and eventually kidnapping Lewis at gunpoint to extract a confession.
The complex plot concluded with Lewis avoiding justice for his crime against Ben, though it was later revealed he had been charged with sexually assaulting another man. O'Callaghan's performance in this challenging role demonstrated his ability to handle demanding dramatic material.
Beyond his soap work, the actor has appeared in numerous other productions including Wolfe, The Rook, The Witcher: Blood Origin and the critically acclaimed film A Simple Killing.
His move to Coronation Street continues the tradition of actors transitioning between Britain's most popular soaps, promising viewers an explosive new storyline that will delve into the past of Weatherfield's newest family.
