Alan Rothwell, best known for playing David Barlow in the original cast of ITV soap Coronation Street, has died aged 89. His family confirmed the news, stating that he died peacefully in hospital following a short illness on Thursday May 14.
Rothwell was one of the original cast members of Coronation Street, appearing in the very first episode broadcast in December 1960. He played Ken Barlow's brother David before leaving the cobbles in 1968.
His career spanned more than 70 years, with roles in Brookside as Nicholas Black, Emmerdale as John Kenyon, and guest appearances in Casualty and Heartbeat. He also presented children's television programmes Picture Box and Hickory House, becoming a familiar face to generations of viewers.
Following his death, Coronation Street paid tribute, saying: 'We're very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell's passing... He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members.' Actress Samia Longchambon, a former student of Rothwell's when he taught drama, added: 'He was a wonderful man.'
Rothwell is survived by his family, who described him as a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
