William Roache recently shared that he had a two-year feud with a fellow cast member on the long-running soap opera “Coronation Street.” Roache, who has portrayed Ken Barlow since the show’s inception in 1960, disclosed that there was a rift with one of his co-stars during a public appearance alongside Jane Danson, Jack P. Shepherd, Patti Clare, and Jimmi Harkinsin at The Lowry in Salford.
The group reminisced about their experiences working together on the show and participated in a pub quiz focusing on the happenings in Weatherfield over the past 65 years. The event, hosted by “This Morning” star Sharon Marshall, saw the audience warmly welcome Roache to the stage.
Roache discussed his past clash with Pat Phoenix, who played Elsie Tanner on the show. The disagreement stemmed from a scene where Phoenix’s character insulted Roache’s on-screen wife, leading to a professional disagreement on set. Despite continuing to film scenes together, Roache and Phoenix did not speak off-camera for two years until Phoenix extended an olive branch by inviting Roache to her birthday party.
Phoenix, who struggled as an actress before landing the role of Elsie, enjoyed the celebrity status that came with her success on the show. She appeared on “Coronation Street” from 1960 to 1973, returned briefly in 1976, and left the show in 1984, passing away two years later at the age of 62. In a tribute to Phoenix, Roache acknowledged her impact on the show and noted that she embraced the fame brought by her role.
Roache, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award earlier this year, expressed his gratitude for the recognition and his desire to continue working on “Coronation Street” until he turns 100. Reflecting on his career and the cherished memories made on the show, Roache emphasized his excitement for the future and his intention to remain a part of the program for years to come.