Tyrone Dobbs actor Alan Halsall recently signed a new deal to take him into his 20th year on Coronation Street’s cobbles.
But the 36-year-old’s long run on the ITV soap didn’t always look to be guaranteed, despite mechanic Tyrone being a much-loved favourite with viewers.
Indeed, Alan’s spell in Weatherfield could have been a very short one if he’d decided to accept an offer from another show in his early days on Corrie.
According to What’s On TV, Alan might very well have found TV fame in a police drama rather than as Kevin Webster’s trusty number two.
Read more: Nigel Havers drops hints about Coronation Street future for Lewis Archer
He had already made several appearances as delinquent thief Trevor Hicks in ITV’s Heartbeat by the time Coronation Street came calling in 1998.
And it is believed producers were keen to secure his future to the show starring Nick Berry set in 1950s rural Yorkshire.
However, despite his initial soap offer being a relatively short one, Alan admits the choice was not a tough one because of his family ties to Manchester.
“I had a decision to make, and you know which one I chose!” he told the magazine.
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Alan continued: “Initially, it was a three month contract and I didn’t think beyond that. I just wanted to enjoy my time there, and whatever happened, I could look back and say: ‘I was in Coronation Street!'”
He also explained he feels Tyrone’s popularity with audiences lies with his essentially decent character – and even though he still makes mistakes, Ty remains human and relatable.
Alan added: “I think Tyrone’s appeal is that a lot of people can relate to him. He’s not the most educated man but he tries hard, works hard and wants the family life that he never had as a kid.”
Speaking about his recent contract renewal with Corrie to the Daily Star, Alan hinted he would be keen to keeping playing the role for as long as possible.
“To reach the 20-year milestone makes me feel old but I’m also really humbled by it,” he said.
“I’m born and raised in Salford where Coronation Street is set, so it’s always been a big thrill for me and my family when I sign a new contract.”
– Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV
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