Coronation Street actor Jack P Shepherd, known for playing David Platt, has secured a new acting role away from the ITV soap. He will make his pantomime debut this Christmas in Sleeping Beauty at Venue Cymru in Llandudno, Wales, playing the Prince. Performances run from 12 December to 2 January.
Fans Speculate on David Platt's Temporary Exit
Following the announcement, fans on a Coronation Street Facebook fan page began speculating how David Platt might be written out temporarily. One viewer asked: "I wonder how they are going to write David out to appear in Panto." Another suggested: "Probably visit his mum," referring to Gail Platt, who left the show in 2024. A third agreed: "He'll just visit Gail." A fourth wrote: "Easy takes the baby to visit Gail."
Jack's Long-Standing Role on Coronation Street
Jack has played David Platt since 2000, becoming one of the soap's longest-serving characters. David has been central to major storylines, including the murder of his first wife Kylie (Paula Lane) and a male rape storyline. Recently, his sister-in-law Jodie Ramsay (Olivia Frances-Brown) caused chaos by attempting to seduce David while he was intoxicated, impersonating his wife Shona (Julia Goulding) in bed.
Personal News: Jack Welcomes Fourth Child
Earlier this week, Jack and his wife Hanni Treweek announced the birth of their first child together, a daughter named Constance Ita Shepherd, born at home on 26 June 2026. Jack already has three children from previous relationships: Nyla Rae and Ruben with Lauren Shippey, and Greyson with Sammy Milewski.
Discussing his panto role, Jack said: "I'm delighted to be joining the cast in Llandudno this festive season and can't wait to entertain audiences in this year's pantomime."
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
