Aaron McCusker, who plays Ben Driscoll on Coronation Street, is taking on a new role away from the cobbles. The actor is reprising his character Clint Dunwoody in a feature-length special of the crime series Hope Street, titled One of Our Own – A Hope Street Film.
Ben Driscoll's Busy Year on Coronation Street
It has been a busy year for McCusker's character Ben, the fiery landlord of the Rovers Return. Ben has been desperately trying to support his son Will Driscoll (Lucas Hodgson-Wale) after he was groomed by predatory athletics coach Megan Walsh (Beth Nixon). Additionally, Ben has been reeling from the revelation that his mother Maggie Driscoll (Pauline McLynn) had lied to him about his real father, who is none other than Coronation Street legend Jim McDonald (Charles Lawson). This makes Ben half-brothers with another iconic character, Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson).
Hope Street Film Details
McCusker has been seen in behind-the-scenes Instagram pictures shared by hair and makeup artist Shelley Blair. The caption read: 'Great first week shooting Hope Street One of our Own.' The film will centre on a violent crime committed against a much-loved local, bringing bad news for DS Marlene Pettigrew.
Mary McKeagney, Commissioning Editor for BBC Northern Ireland, previously teased: 'We hope this feature-length film will provide the perfect opportunity to tie up some loose ends for fans. It is a bit of a thank you to all our audiences for engaging so enthusiastically with the series. Thanks, too, to the cast and crew, past and present, for bringing us such joy across all five seasons so far.'
Cast and Crew
Among those set to return alongside McCusker are Kerri Quinn, Tara-Lynne O'Neill, Niamh McGrady, Marcus Onilude, Cameron Cuffe, Katie Shortt, Eleanor Methven, Paddy Jenkins, Jonny Grogan and RheAna Kamalu. Comedians Paddy Raff and Tim McGarry have also joined the cast, along with actor Letitia Hector.
No Absences for Ben on Coronation Street
Fans of Coronation Street need not worry. McCusker has been fitting the project in alongside his commitments at Corrie, so there should be no onscreen absences for Ben. This is just as well, as Megan's trial is looming, and Will will need his father by his side every step of the way.
