As Coronation Street staple Peter Barlow continues to struggle with the aftermath of Stephen Reid’s death at his hands, anxious soap fans have been waiting with baited to breath to see how the character’s exit storyline will play out.
As regular viewers will know, Peter Barlow will be written out of the soap in the coming weeks, as actor Chris Gascoyne has decided to take an “extended break” from the iconic role he has held for over twenty years.
The news first broke back in July, with a source telling the MailOnline, that there was no return date set for Chris’ return to the soap.
They said: "He's taking an extended break as he has done before with no set date for return as yet. He will be on screen until the end of the year, with the door will be very much left open."
Chris first joined the soap in 2000, and then made his character permanent in 2016, with a few exits in between. He's taken. on numerous hard-hitting storylines throughout is 23-year stint on the cobbles and his character is set to be sorely missed during his extended break.
But why exactly is Chris taking a break from the soap?
According to sources close to the actor, Chris is stepping away from the cobbles for an extended break, so that he can pursue different projects away from the iconic soap set.
A source told The Sun: "Chris has decided to take an extended break from the soap.
"He loves working at Coronation Street but he's got a lot of things he wants to do and the time is right for him to take a break and pursue other roles.”
One role in particular seems to have captured Chris’ attention, as he will be swapping his soap star roots for the theatre stage this Christmas, as part of a brand new Pantomime production in Saint Albans at the Alban Arena.
The talented actor will be taking on the role of Captain Hook in the stage production of Peter Pan later this year, which will no doubt come as a huge relief to fans who were heartbroken to hear about his Corrie departure.
Taking to Instagram, to announce the star’s involvement in the production the Alban Arena said: "The Alban Arena are delighted to announce Coronation Street Legend Chris Gascoyne will star as Captain Hook in The All New Adventures of Peter Pan this pantomime season!
“Chris Gascoyne is famous for his role as Peter Barlow in Britain’s top soap, Coronation Street (ITV) in which he has led numerous high-profile storylines to great acclaim."
They added: "This promises to be our most spectacular pantomime yet with stunning sets, dazzling costumes, and a star-studded cast, this is a must-see show for the whole family.
“ Don't miss your chance to experience the wonder and excitement of Neverland once more in Paul Hendy's pantomime sequel!”
As well as delighting audiences with the role, Chris is also set to earn himself a tidy sum too, with the actor to set to rake in a whopping £130,000 for his pantomime run over the festive season.
In addition to taking on new work roles however, Chris will also be spending his time away from Corrie enjoying some well earned rest and relaxation with his stunning wife, Caroline Harding.
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