Former Coronation Street star Chris Fountain has received an outpouring of support from fans after sharing emotional details about his terrifying stroke experience. The actor, who played Tommy Duckworth on the long-running ITV soap, posted a series of personal photos including a hospital bed snapshot to mark Stroke Prevention Day.
A Shocking Health Scare
In August 2022, Fountain suffered what was initially diagnosed as a mini-stroke, medically known as a Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA). The actor woke up at home unable to speak properly, leading to a five-day hospital stay in London for recovery and tests. During this frightening period, Fountain confessed he feared "life as he knew it" was over when doctors discovered a blood clot had become lodged in his brain.
Uncovering Underlying Health Issues
The medical investigations following his stroke revealed additional health concerns that Fountain hadn't previously known about. Tests showed he had a hole in his heart, a condition that required surgical intervention. In May 2023, the actor underwent heart surgery to address this issue, later sharing with followers: "Hopefully, that should mean no more strokes and I'll have a little bionic heart."
Raising Awareness on Stroke Prevention
On Thursday, January 29, Fountain took to Instagram to share his story in honour of Stroke Prevention Day. His emotional post included several photos from his health journey, accompanied by a heartfelt caption reflecting on his experience. "Back in August 2022, I had a stroke. I was terrified," Fountain wrote. "I'm so grateful for my family and friends who helped me through that crazy time. I wouldn't want anyone to have to go through what I went through."
Important Health Message
The actor used his platform to deliver a crucial public health message, highlighting that high blood pressure represents the single biggest risk factor for stroke, responsible for approximately half of all cases. Fountain encouraged his followers to check their blood pressure regularly, stating: "There are steps you can try to prevent stroke and with today being stroke prevention day I want to bring some attention to one of those steps."
He expressed pride in supporting the Stroke Association and directed people to stroke.org.uk/stroke-prevention-day for more information about prevention strategies.
Overwhelming Fan Support
Fountain's honest revelation prompted an immediate wave of supportive messages from fans and followers in the comments section of his post. One well-wisher commented: "The comeback is always better than the setback. Proud of you." Another added: "So glad you are doing so well now and Now you can help others too with signs etc." A third chimed in with: "Sending you so much love. You are amazing! Always were."
From Soap Star to Health Advocate
Chris Fountain first joined the cast of Coronation Street in 2011, portraying Tommy Duckworth, the grandson of iconic character Jack Duckworth, originally played by Bill Tarmey. During his time on the soap, Fountain was involved in several major storylines, including dramatic plots involving his manipulative father Terry, played by Nigel Pivaro, and a romantic relationship with Tina McIntyre, portrayed by Michelle Keegan.
His departure from the show in 2013 followed controversy surrounding obscene rap videos he had made under his alter-ego The Phantom, which led to a public apology from the actor. Now, over a decade later, Fountain is using his personal health journey to raise awareness about stroke prevention, transforming his terrifying experience into an opportunity to help others.
