Roy Cropper, the beloved cardigan-wearing café owner of Weatherfield, has been a staple on Coronation Street for three decades. But now, fans are genuinely frightened by a new, darker side of the character.
David Neilson's Dual Role
Actor David Neilson, who has played Roy since 1995, is now portraying an evil hallucination of the character in a gripping mental health storyline. The twist has divided fans, with many expressing unease at seeing Roy in a sinister light.
Roy's History on the Cobbles
Roy first appeared on the famous street in July 1995, living in Crimea Street flats and working at Jim's Café. He later bought the business and renamed it Roy's Rolls. Over the years, Roy has been central to dramatic plots, including his marriage to Hayley Patterson, the first transgender character in a British soap, and her heartbreaking suicide in 2014.
The Current Storyline
Teenager Sam Blakeman is suffering from psychosis after being threatened by groomer Megan Walsh. Sam's hallucinations include a menacing version of Roy, who urges him to take violent action. In recent episodes, Sam locked himself in the café, terrified by the evil Roy apparition.
Fan Reactions
Viewers have taken to social media to share their shock. @swarlacn said: "It’s so odd seeing Roy acting like this." @janwilkins59 added: "This is so weird seeing the dark side of Roy!" Others praised Neilson's performance, with @ReasonableHaze noting: "David Neilson warrants an award for his acting."
What's Next?
Carla Connor-Swain recognizes Sam's psychosis, having experienced it herself. Next week, Nick Tilsley realizes the extent of his son's suffering and lashes out at Ben Driscoll. However, Sam may turn a corner when he asks to see Roy.
