Coronation Street fans were delighted tonight by the addition of a legendary Desmond’s star to the cast. Desmond’s was set in a barbershop In Peckham that was the hub of the community’s social scene and ran on Channel 4 from 1989 until 1994.
Ram John Holder, who is best known for his portrayal of Porkpie in the much-loved Channel 4 sitcom Desmond’s, made his first appearance in the ITV soap as ‘Sarge’ Bailey.
The 89-year-old actor is the latest addition to the popular Bailey family, playing the father of Ed Bailey (played by Trevor Michael Georges) and Ronnie (Vinta Morgan).
His casting was revealed back in September but this is the first time he has been seen on screen.
He arrived in dramatic fashion showing up on Ed’s doorstep a day earlier than expected and it is clear that there is tension between father and son.
Fans of the show recognised him immediately and took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to share their delight at his addition to the cast.
@joewagg23 commented: “Brilliant to see Porkpie in Coronation Street! Legend! #Corrie #coronationstreet.”
A user with the handle @thebookgirly exclaimed: “Porkpie! Yes, what a legend! #corrie #coronationstreet @itvcorrie.” (sic )
@chimaira1967 simply said: “No way it’s pork pie #coronationstreet.” (sic) @hare__today shared an equally simple post writing: “It’s pork pie! #coronationstreet.”
Meanwhile, @Vera5316585413 had some thoughts about the Bailey family, adding: “ONLY #PORKPIE AND #RONNIE NEEDED IN THE BAILEY FAMILY PLEASE #Corrie #coronationstreet.”
Sarge has arrived just as his son’s gambling addiction has taken a hold again and his arrival caused Ed huge anxiety.
He is making himself right at home and Ed is far from happy about it. This week, the real motive for his visit comes to the fore when he confesses his business is struggling and he needs to borrow £2,000.
Unperturbed Ronnie assures him that he and Ed can lend him the money as Ed’s panic heightens at the thought of another financial commitment.
Coronation Street is on ITV Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm.