Corrie newcomer Helen Lederer has opened up on playing Ken Barlow’s new love interest.
The comedian is set to guest star in the ITV soap next week alongside soap legend William Roache CBE. Ken will prove he still has what it takes to woo the ladies when he catches the eye of Elspeth, played by Helen, during a singles cocktail night at the Chariot Square Hotel.
Having sent drinks over to Ken and his son in law Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson), Elspeth is invited to join them, leaving Steve gutted that his octogenarian father-in-law has managed to hit it off with an attractive lady whilst he hasn’t met anyone.
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Opening up on how the role of Elspeth came about, Helen said: “It came out of the blue but for me Coronation Street, of all the soaps, is the most substantial and ironic with such humour, it’s really a class act. So when you get the call for Coronation Street you drop everything.
“And to be offered a part playing a role opposite William Roache is even more exciting, I had met him once before when I sat next to him at an event and I thought what a lovely man he was and so personable. So for me to be offered this brief role was a joy. What struck me was how amazing everyone was and how comfortable they made me feel. “
(Image: ITV)
Opening up about what it was like working with Corrie legend Bill, who has played Ken for 64 years, Helen added: “Well I can see why Elspeth is interested in him, he is a real silver fox with very chiselled cheekbones. I was very conscious of all the history. There’s a certain pedigree and I’m very respectful of that.
“What really struck me was how dignified they were, and also having the grace to connect with a new person, they took time with me and I went away thinking what nice people.” Fans will have to wait and see if Elspeth and Ken hit it off.
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
