Martin Hancock has joined the cast of Casualty, two years after leaving Coronation Street, where he played eco-warrior Spider Nugent on-and-off for 26 years
Former Coronation Street fave Martin Hancock has bagged a fresh gig in the BBC’s hit medical drama Casualty, waving goodbye to the familiar streets of Weatherfield. After popping in and out of Corrie for a whopping 26 years, fans were gobsmacked to see him exit.
His Corrie stint featured the role of eco-champion Spider Nugent. But now, he’s swapping his ITV badge for a spot on Casualty, taking up the mantle of Samuel Jankowski.
His new character, Samuel, will be playing kin to student paramedic Indie Jankowski, who’s been reeling from her nan’s death, whom she resided with. Post the family loss, Indie’s been surfing sofas and was even caught sleeping in an ambulance while off-duty because she’s without a permanent home.
Spider made his Weatherfield exit two years back, leaving behind his on-off flame, Toyah Battersby (played by Georgia Taylor). His farewell came after Toyah lobbed an ultimatum his way – ditch the covert cop ops or their romance was dust.
Spider chose the job and traipsed away from both Toyah and the streets that made him a star, reports the Mirror.
Reflecting on his last Corrie chapter, Martin dished to Manchester Evening News: “Life’s gone wrong between them. It’s just bad luck and circumstance. What’s happened in Spider’s life and what’s happened in Toyah’s life have worked against them in the end, and it’s sad. They’re both very committed people, but for now, it’s not workable.”
Teasing a potential comeback to the cobbles, he hinted: “I don’t think it’s the end. I don’t think it’s the end of the story. These two will always have a bit of love there… I think he’ll be desperately sad about the way things have ended.”
Martin first waved goodbye to Corrie in 2000, only to pop back the following year. By 2003, Spider had convinced a disenchanted Toyah Battersby to up sticks and join him in London.
The nation fell for the eccentric character with his offbeat life views, vibrant wardrobe, and staunch eco-warrior stance – something actor Martin wholeheartedly endorses.
Martin’s initial exit from Corrie was unexpected, yet he felt Spider had run his course. Reflecting on his 2000 departure, Martin admitted leaving was hard but believed the once-radical character had become “too normal”.
During his stint on Corrie in the late nineties, Martin experienced personal loss when his mum, Vi, passed away. As an only child, he shared a close bond with her and cherished their relationship.
Martin also shared how proud his mother was of his role on Corrie. Speaking a few years post her passing, Martin reminisced: “I was heartbroken – it was horrible. My mum was my soundboard for everything. We were best mates and had no unfinished business. She was so proud of me when I got Corrie – she couldn’t believe it.”
Beyond Coronation Street, Martin also made a name for himself in Hollywood. After leaving Corrie, the actor secured roles in major films, including a starring part in Steve Coogan’s 24 Hour Party People. He also landed a leading role in Ridley Scott’s Kingdom Of Heaven.
Martin further distanced himself from his soap persona when he starred alongside Daniel Craig in Defiance in 2008. Having previously appeared in Casualty, this upcoming role marks a return to the show.
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
