Coronation Street paid tribute to actor Alan Rothwell at the end of Monday's episode (June 1) following his death at the age of 89. Rothwell, best known for playing David Barlow on the ITV soap in the 1960s, died on May 14 after a short illness.
Rothwell was one of the original cast members when he joined the soap in 1960. He left in 1961 but returned for a second stint as David Barlow between 1963 and 1968. He also appeared in other soaps including Brookside, Doctors and Heartbeat.
His co-star William Roache, who plays Ken Barlow, paid tribute, saying: 'I am very sorry to hear of Rothwell's passing. He and I worked together on the very first episodes of Coronation Street, which was such a wonderful time. I got to know him well over the years; he was a very good actor and a delightful man.'
The soap's tribute consisted of a black-and-white photograph of Rothwell at the end of the episode, with the words: 'In memory of Alan Rothwell, 1937-2026.' The show's social team also posted a statement extending condolences to his family.
Rothwell's family said: 'Alan died peacefully in hospital following a short illness. Beyond his professional achievements, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many people whose lives he touched through his work.'
