Coronation Street star Paddy Bever has announced his next major role, revealing he will join the West End cast of Stranger Things: The First Shadow. The 23-year-old actor, who played Max Turner on the ITV soap for four years, bowed out of the show early last year after his character was sent to prison for arson. Now, he is set to take on the leading role of Henry Creel in the stage adaptation of the hit Netflix series.
New Role Announcement
Bever shared the news on Thursday afternoon, expressing his excitement about making his West End debut next month. He wrote on social media: "So excited to make my West End debut next month leading the most amazing cast. And not scared at all." The official Instagram account for Stranger Things: The First Shadow also confirmed the casting, posting: "Class, we have a new student coming to Hawkins High. Paddy Bever joins #STOnStage as Henry Creel from 12 June."
Support from Former Co-Stars
Several of Bever's former Coronation Street co-stars congratulated him on the news. Jack P. Shepherd, who plays Max's adoptive father David Platt, commented: "So so so good." Lucy Fallon, who portrays Bethany Platt, wrote: "so buzzing for u paddy" accompanied by pink heart emojis. Cait Fitton, who plays Lauren Bolton, said: "I am so frickin proud @paddybever." Georgia Taylor (Toyah Battersby) added: "Oh Paddy!! This is the most brilliant news, congratulations darling xx." Mollie Gallagher (Nina Lucas) simply said: "Amazing," while Tony Maudsley (George Shuttleworth) enthused: "Yayyyy Paddy!!! I'm so chuffed for you. Brilliant news!!! Bravo you!! Good things come to those who wait (and work hard) xxx." Other well-wishers included Samia Longchambon (Maria Connor), Charlotte Jordan (former Daisy Midgeley), and Elle Mulvaney (Amy Barlow).
Background on Paddy Bever
Bever took over the role of Max Turner from child actor Harry McDermott in 2021 and won the Rising Star Award at the National Television Awards in 2022. After four years, he decided to leave the soap, stating at the time: "After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities. I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way. It's been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show. This chapter has been unforgettable."
Following his final scenes, Bever posted a video message thanking fans: "Hey, so if you are watching this, it means that you have also watched Max's exit and therefore you know I am parting ways with this role and the show. That comes with a huge cocktail of emotions because I've had the most wonderful time tuned in - to everyone who loves Max, thank you. To everyone who hates Max, thank you. He's certainly been very complex and a real privilege to play. To be part of the Platts family and be part of an amazing team for three years has been incredible. It's been some very formative years for me and it's a very strange feeling that it's coming to an end. This has definitely been amongst the hardest decisions of my life as I've just had the most amazing time."
About the Play
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is currently running at the Phoenix Theatre in London's West End. Bever will join the cast from June 12, taking over the role of Henry Creel, previously played by Louis Healy and originated by Louis McCartney. The play is based on the Netflix series, which starred Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, and Winona Ryder, among others.
