Former Coronation Street actor Paddy Bever has been cast as Henry Creel in the West End production of Stranger Things: The First Shadow. The 22-year-old, who played Max Turner on the ITV soap for four years, will make his stage debut in the role from 12 June.
The official Instagram account for the stage show confirmed the news, writing: 'Class, we have a new student coming to Hawkins High… Paddy Bever joins #STOnStage as Henry Creel from 12 June.' Bever follows Louis McCartney, who originated the role in London from 2023 to 2024 before moving to Broadway, and Emmerdale's Louis Healey, who played the part in 2024.
Bever's former Coronation Street co-stars reacted warmly to the announcement. Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt, wrote: 'so buzzing for u paddy', while Georgia Taylor (Toyah Battersby) added: 'Oh Paddy!! This is the most brilliant news. Congratulations darling.' Charlotte Jordan, who left the soap last year as Daisy Midgley, said: 'it's ouuuuut!!! cannot wait to come seeeee', and Tony Maudsley (George Shuttleworth) commented: 'Yayyyyy Paddy!!!! I'm so chuffed for you. Brilliant news!! Bravo you!!!'
Bever joined Coronation Street in 2021, taking over the role of Max Turner from Harry McDermott. During his time on the show, his character was involved in major storylines including radicalisation by Griff Reynolds, a feud with teacher Daniel Osbourne, a romance with Lauren Bolton, and involvement in the murder of Joel Deering. Max was later sentenced to six and a half years in prison for arson.
Announcing his departure from the soap last year, Bever said: '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.'
Stranger Things: The First Shadow is a prequel stage production set before the events of the Netflix series, exploring the origins of the Upside Down and the backstory of Henry Creel. The show has been running on the West End since 2023.
