In a significant development for British television drama, a former Emmerdale actor has secured a new role in the iconic Coronation Street, marking another intriguing crossover between ITV's flagship soap operas. This move continues a long tradition of performers appearing in both the gritty streets of Weatherfield and the rural drama of the Dales.
Steve Evets Takes on Pivotal Family Role
Steve Evets, aged 66, has been officially cast as the long-lost father of Coronation Street characters Shona Platt, portrayed by Julia Goulding, and Jodie Ramsey, played by Olivia Frances-Brown. This casting adds a compelling new dimension to the ongoing storyline involving the recently reunited sisters.
Soap enthusiasts will recognise Evets from his previous role as Tom Shepherd in Emmerdale, which he played between 1998 and 1999. Beyond his soap credentials, the actor has also appeared in popular series such as Brassic and Shameless, bringing considerable experience to the Coronation Street set.
Plot Developments and Family Dynamics
The narrative is set to intensify in upcoming episodes, with Shona following Jodie to a psychiatric hospital after becoming suspicious that her sister is concealing information. It is during this visit that Jodie reintroduces Shona to their estranged father, who is now portrayed as confused and vulnerable.
The storyline reveals that Jodie was left to care for their father alone after their mother abandoned the family. Touched by this revelation, Shona reassures Jodie that she is now part of the family unit, promising support and solidarity.
Crossover Connections and Future Prospects
This casting is particularly fitting given that mysterious newcomer Jodie made her debut during last month's groundbreaking Coronation Street/Emmerdale crossover event, colloquially known as Corriedale. That historic episode featured a catastrophic car pile-up involving residents from both soaps, with several fatalities and dramatic twists.
The crossover's most shocking moment was the unexpected return of Andrew Scarborough as Graham, a character previously killed off in Emmerdale six years earlier. Graham was seen driving a van with a bound Jodie in the back, leading to a tense chase sequence that ended with Jodie being found by police officer Kit Green, played by Jacob Roberts.
Since the crossover, viewers have discovered the sibling connection between Jodie and Shona, notably through their matching tree tattoos. However, the reasons behind Jodie's desperate flight from Graham and his motives for kidnapping her remain shrouded in mystery.
Producer Insights and Storyline Promises
Coronation Street series producer Kate Brooks has confirmed that answers about Jodie's past and her connection to Graham will be forthcoming. In an interview with The Mirror, Brooks stated: 'We will reference what happened, we'll find out exactly why she was in that van, we'll find out what her link to Graham is. We'll reveal what went on between them, and how Jodie ended up running for her life and what Graham's role was in it all. It's a story that goes on to be really big as we get into spring and summer.'
Recent Revelations and Emotional Reunions
The sisters were reunited under dramatic circumstances after both were taken to hospital following the crossover crash, with Shona going into premature labour. Jodie, catching sight of Shona in a corridor, was visibly shocked, leading a doctor to remark that she looked like she had seen a ghost.
Confirmation of their relationship came recently when Shona gave birth to a baby girl named Harper. Watching through the hospital window, Jodie identified herself as the newborn's auntie. When she approached to congratulate the family, Shona confirmed to her husband David Platt, played by Jack P. Shepherd, that she recognised Jodie, leading to an emotional exchange where Jodie simply said: 'Hi sis.'
Despite this reconnection, Shona initially told Jodie it wasn't an ideal time to rebuild their relationship, promising to make contact once circumstances had settled. The soap is expected to explore Shona's past in greater depth as she navigates this renewed family connection after years of separation.
Contract Details and Character Potential
Steve Evets is currently scheduled to appear in a single episode of Coronation Street airing later this month. However, according to reports from The Sun, producers are leaving the door open for the character to return in future storylines, suggesting his role could expand beyond this initial appearance.
Coronation Street continues to air on ITV1 and is available for streaming on ITVX, maintaining its position as one of Britain's most beloved and longest-running television dramas.
