Ross Wilkes, portrayed by actor Ian Burfield, has been revealed as the biological father of Tyrone Dobbs on Coronation Street. The shocking revelation unfolded after Cassie Plummer, played by Claire Sweeney, encountered Ross at a hotel bar while intoxicated following her marriage proposal rejection from Steve McDonald.
Cassie's Shocking Encounter
Cassie turned to drink after Steve turned down her proposal. At the hotel bar, she began chatting with a mysterious man, who initially seemed receptive. However, as he prepared to leave, he turned hostile, mocking her intoxication and calling her a "hooker." Cassie confronted him, but he continued taunting her before departing. When she saw his name on his drinks tab—Ross Wilkes—she was visibly stunned.
Ross Wilkes: Tyrone's Long-Lost Father
Spoilers confirm that Ross is the long-lost biological father of Cassie's son, Tyrone Dobbs. Tyrone's daughters, Hope Stape and Ruby Dobbs, secretly sent a DNA sample to locate Ross, then invited him to the cobbles as a surprise. Cassie, who hasn't seen Ross in over 40 years, didn't recognize him until she saw his name. It remains unclear if Ross recognized Cassie, and further details about their history are expected to emerge.
Cassie's Departure from the Show
This storyline leads to Cassie's exit from Coronation Street. Claire Sweeney has stepped down after three years to take on her dream role as Miss Hannigan in the musical Annie. Speaking about her departure, Sweeney said: "I've had wobbles all the way along. I keep saying to people: 'oh God, am I doing the right thing?'" She added: "You're part of a family at Coronation Street, you feel safe and protected and leaving is like stepping out into the big, wide world again. It feels like I've broken up with a boyfriend I'm still in love with." Sweeney noted that her exit is very sad and that she had a little weep over her leaving scenes.
What's Next for Tyrone and Ross?
It remains to be seen whether Ross will reveal Cassie's identity to Steve, and how Tyrone will react to meeting his biological father. The drama continues on Coronation Street, airing weeknights on ITV1 at 8.30pm and streaming from 7am on ITVX.
