Shayne Ward lands dream role on Coronation Street
He's joining the permanent cast
Former X Factor winner Shayne Ward has landed a dream role on Coronation Street.
The 30-year-old Manchester lad will play Aiden Connor in the iconic ITV soap – the distant cousin of Michelle Connor who grew up on the same estate as her and Carla.
Shayne’s character is described by ITV as “charming” whose arrival in August “will set female hearts fluttering” in Weatherfield.
An early storyline will see him become locked in a bitter feud with Tracy Barlow’s former husband Robert Preston (played by Tristan Gemmill).
Shayne starts filming the role next month and his character’s arrival will son be followed by his dad and sister.
Clearly ecstatic about his one-year contract, Shayne enthused: "On hearing the news I had been offered the part on the show I was in total disbelief. It still hasn't sunk in.
“Shayne Ward the lad from Manchester, given such a role on such an iconic show - it is an absolute dream come true. I'm excited to walk down those famous cobbles.”
He continued: “My family and friends know just how much this means to me and I cannot wait to do them all proud. 2015 has been a great year for me so far and I look forward to joining the Coronation Street family."
Since winning The X Factor a decade ago, Shayne has released four studio albums including the charting topping ‘Shayne Ward’ and Platinum selling ‘Breathless’ and scored five Top 10 hits.
Shayne has also received a nomination at the 2012 What's On Stage Awards for his role in Rock of Ages in the West End, and appeared in Jeff Wayne’s Stage version of War of the Worlds