Coronation Street star Jude Riordan, known for playing Sam Blakeman on the ITV soap, comes from a family deeply rooted in show business. His father, Paul Riordan, is a television director who has helmed numerous episodes of the very same soap, and his brother, Zach Riordan, also appeared on the cobbles as a chess rival to Sam.
Jude Riordan's Role on Coronation Street
Jude arrived on the ITV soap in 2020 as Sam Blakeman, the secret son of Nick Tilsley (Ben Price). Since then, Sam has been involved in several major storylines, including the devastating death of his mother, Natasha Blakeman (Rachel Leskovac), who was murdered by Harvey Gaskell (Will Mellor). Recently, Sam's mental health has declined, with him experiencing hallucinations and suffering a psychic breakdown that led to hospitalization.
Father Paul Riordan: A Director on the Cobbles
Jude's father, Paul Riordan, built a thriving career as a television director after entering the industry through a part in Hollyoaks years ago. He has since accumulated directing credits on soaps including Emmerdale and Casualty. In 2021, Paul joined his son on Corrie, directing an episode. Jude posted a photograph of himself embracing his dad on set, saying: "When you haven't been well but can't miss your first Corrie scene directed by yer Dad @paulrio27."
The previous year, father and son were photographed together on the iconic cobbles near the street's salon, accompanied by the caption: "Another blockbuster with the Father @paulrio27 a busy couple of days! More bold choices. Back with him next week @coronationstreet."
Brother Zach Riordan Appears as Chess Rival
Jude's brother Zach also featured on the soap in 2022, portraying Oscar, Sam's opponent in a chess competition. Jude shared his thoughts on X: "When it was Bring Your Brother to Work Day ... Sam smashed Oscar out of the bistro. BEST DAY so far." Audiences were stunned, with one viewer responding: "Didn't realise that was your real brother @JudeRiordan wow how lovely! Fab having a scene together playing Chess Rivals!! Will have to watch again on Catch-up."
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
