Coronation Street actor Jack P Shepherd, best known for his role as David Platt, has announced his first acting role away from the ITV soap since joining the show 26 years ago. The 35-year-old actor will make his pantomime debut this Christmas in Venue Cymru's production of Sleeping Beauty in Llandudno, Wales.
From Weatherfield to Pantomime
Shepherd, who was born on Christmas Day 1990, originally took over the role of David Platt at age 12 after Thomas Ormson portrayed the character. He has since been involved in some of Coronation Street's most dramatic storylines, including a harrowing plot last year where David contemplated suicide. However, both the character and actor survived, and David has since been navigating the early arrival of his daughter Harper with wife Shona Platt, as well as the disruptive presence of sister-in-law Jodie Ramsey.
Now, Shepherd is set to step into a new role. The actor will star alongside John Evans and Simon Neehan in Sleeping Beauty at Venue Cymru, running from December 12, 2026, to January 2, 2027.
Support from Fans and Colleagues
The announcement was made on Venue Cymru's Instagram, prompting an outpouring of support. Shepherd responded, "This. This will be a masterpiece." His wife, Hanni Treweek, gushed: "I’m married to a Prince!! always so proud of you." Former Coronation Street co-star also chimed in with a classic panto quip: "Oh no he’s not." Emmerdale actress Michelle Hardwick, married to Corrie producer Kate Brooks, added: "Little Panto trip @thekatebrooks is in order here."
Fans expressed excitement, with @irene_estry writing: "Jack the lad oh yes he is !! Gotta see this" and @foreveraloe_bykaren noting: "So excited about this, we have tickets for the opening weekend." Some requested a streamed version for international viewers, such as @reba_hill who said: "Yes! Please say they will film it so we can watch from the US! I have seen a few old pantos on YouTube."
Official Statement from Venue Cymru
Amanda Guy, Section Head at Venue Cymru, said: "We are thrilled to welcome Jack P Shepherd to Venue Cymru for Sleeping Beauty. Jack is one of the country’s most recognisable and popular television stars, and we’re delighted that he will be making his pantomime debut with us in Llandudno. Our audiences can look forward to another magical festive production packed with laughter, music and family fun."
Shepherd himself expressed his enthusiasm: "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."
