CORONATION Street legends Bill Roache and Michael Le Vell have landed big-money deals to stay on the soap. Veteran star Bill, who has played Ken Barlow since the ITV soap first aired in 1960, and Michael, who joined in 1983 to play Kevin Wesbter, will remain on the Cobbles for at least another year after signing on the dotted line.
An insider said: "They're both hugely popular with fans so bosses were keen to sign them up for another year on the soap. “The fact they've both taken the big-money deal is a huge relief to everyone - the show wouldn't be the same without them." It's thought bosses want to keep the fan favourites on the show, after Brooke Vincent made the decision not to return.
Bill, 89, was forced off the soap in 2021 after a secret battle with Covid but was quick to return as soon as he was well enough.
Michael was suspended from the show in 2013 while he fought sex offence charges, but returned in 2014 when he was found not guilty.
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