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Daily Mirror
11-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
BBC's The Royle Family cast and where they are today
The family is one of the most famous sitcom families in the UK, and now 26 years after the first episode of The Royle Family aired, we take a look at the cast and where they are now The Royle Family, despite only running for three series, is considered one of the finest British sitcoms ever created. Produced by Granada Television for the BBC, it aired from 1998 to 2000, with special standalone episodes broadcast from 2006, the last of which was in 2012. Set in Manchester, the sitcom chronicled the everyday lives of the Royles, a typical working-class family from the North West. The main characters have remained etched in fans' memories even decades later. The family comprised Jim Royle (Ricky Tomlinson), his wife Barbara (Sue Johnston), their daughter Denise (Caroline Aherne), son Antony (Ralf Little) and Denise's husband Dave (Craig Cash), all of whom resonated with ordinary families across the UK. The series was written by Caroline Aherne and Craig Cash. On paper, it was a straightforward concept, but it evolved into something entirely groundbreaking. The show enjoyed immense success and set the stage for subsequent comedies, reports the Liverpool Echo. Each episode depicted the family as they settled down to watch evening telly, discussed dinner plans and bickered amongst themselves, perfectly encapsulating working-class family life. Over the years, millions have tuned in to watch The Royle Family. While it is frequently rerun on television, viewers can also catch it on BBC iPlayer. Here's a round-up of some of the most unforgettable characters and what became of them after the show. Ricky Tomlinson Ricky Tomlinson, best recognised for his portrayal of Jim Royle in the acclaimed comedy series, has left a mark with various other roles such as Bobby Grant in the iconic Merseyside soap Brookside and playing DCI Charlie Wise in the gripping crime drama Cracker. His tenure on The Royle Family spanned all three series, as well as its coveted Christmas specials, from 1998 to 2012. In a candid chat with The Guardian, Ricky reminisced about clinching the part of Jim following a serendipitous meeting at a buffet with Caroline Aherne, the show's leading light and co-creator. Beyond The Royle Family, Ricky kept busy with numerous film and television appearances. The BBC even featured him in the thirteenth series of Who Do You Think You Are?, unfolding the narrative of his Liverpool-rooted ancestors through a legacy of carters. In 2020, the Liverpudlian embarked on a televised journey alongside Royle Family co-star Ralf Little in Gold's travelogue, Ricky and Ralf's Very Northern Road Trip. An unwavering champion of his hometown Liverpool, Ricky has been quoted saying: "I will never, ever move away from Liverpool, I love it here." Ricky found love with social worker Rita Cummiskey, whom he wed in 2003. Alongside managing his career, she has shared his life since their paths crossed in 1993. Before Rita, he was married to Marlene Tomlinson; together they parented Clifton, Gareth, and Kate. Sue Johnston Sue Johnston, known for her role as Barbara Royle in The Royle Family from 1998 to 2012, shared the screen with Ricky, who played her on-screen husband just as he did in Brookside. As the family matriarch, she was mother to Denise and Antony, and daughter to Nana. Sue first rose to fame as Sheila Grant in Brookside, showcasing her acting versatility in a variety of roles over the years. You might also recognise her as Gloria Price in Coronation Street, Miss Denker in Downton Abbey, and from the critically acclaimed 90s series Goodbye Cruel World. In 2018, she portrayed Ivy-Rae in the BBC drama Age Before Beauty, and in August 2019, she took on the role of Joan in the second series of Hold the Sunset. The Liverpool icon also starred alongside Stephen Graham and Jodie Comer in the film Help!, which centred around the Covid-19 pandemic. At 81, Sue continues to captivate audiences, reprising her role in the Downton Abbey film sequel, Downton Abbey: A New Era, in 2022. Away from the camera, she has achieved remarkable personal milestones, expressing her 'overwhelm' to the ECHO upon receiving the freedom of city award in Liverpool last year. Craig Cash Craig is best remembered for his role as Dave in The Royle Family. His character, beloved by fans, delivered countless comedic moments throughout the show's three series. Alongside Caroline, Craig also penned the script for the show. The actor has been in various TV shows and has penned other comedies. Craig notably wrote the BBC sitcom Early Doors, which tells tales from within a pub where regulars share their lives and issues, running for two seasons from 2003 to 2004. Craig crafted the show with Phil Mealey, who not only co-wrote but acted in the sitcom. The duo also created the 2008 miniseries drama Sunshine. He gained significant recognition when he stepped in as the narrator of Channel 4's Gogglebox following the passing of Caroline, his Royle Family co-star, in 2016. The pair had a strong bond both onscreen and off. At 64, Craig is married to Stephanie Davies and they have two sons, Harry and Billy, both featuring in The Queen of Sheba episode of The Royle Family. Caroline Aherne Caroline left a lasting legacy, securing a BAFTA for her role as Denise in The Royle Family, which she co-created alongside Ricky, Craig Cash, Phil, and Henry Normal. Additionally, she bagged a BAFTA for her work on The Mrs Merton Show. The Royle Family, her most famous work, ran for three series from 1998 to 2000, where she appeared as Denise, the daughter of Barbara and Jim Royle, earning herself the BAFTA for Best Comedy Performance in 2000. Caroline's last prominent part was as the voice behind the comedy reality series Gogglebox on Channel 4. Craig Cash provided cover narrations when she was unable and ultimately took on the role permanently in April 2016 after Caroline passed away. Caroline's last on-screen performance was in Sky One's After Hours, where she acted opposite her Royle Family screen husband Craig as the character Sheila. Caroline, diagnosed with lung cancer in 2014, sadly passed away in 2016 at just 52-years-old, prompting a global outpouring of tributes. Upon her untimely death, Craig eulogised: "She was a very bright light that didn't shine long enough." Ralf Little Renowned for his role as Antony Royle in the BBC's The Royle Family, Ralf Little portrayed the put-upon youngest son who was frequently tasked with running errands and completing chores for the family. Securing the part of Antony propelled Little into acting full-time, leading him to abandon his medical studies at the University of Manchester. He was part of the show's cast from its debut in 1998 up until its final special in 2012. With numerous high-profile roles, Ralf has enjoyed a successful career, notably portraying Jonny Keogh in the first six seasons of Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, and more recently starring as Detective Inspector Neville Parker in Death in Paradise from 2020 to 2024. Will Mellor and Ralf Little have set fans buzzing by announcing they'll be teaming up again soon, following the success of their comedy 'Will and Ralf Should Know Better' which aired last year. Following the success of their initial series, Will and Ralf are set to return to U and UandDave for a second series of adventures. The new series will be broadcast in two segments, each consisting of three episodes. He has been betrothed to American playwright and screenwriter Lindsey Ferrentino, who is the daughter of comedian and magician John Ferrentino, since 2018. Andy Whyment Andy portrayed Darren Sinclair-Jones in The Royle Family. Despite only playing the role between 1999 and 2000, his character became a memorable part of the show. In the series, Darren is Antony's best mate. His final appearance comes in the Series 3 Christmas Special when Antony and his pregnant partner Emma ask Darren to be the Godfather. Although he featured in the popular BBC comedy, Andy is most recognised for his role on Coronation Street, where he has played Kirk Sutherland since 2000. He has also participated in Soapstar Superstar and Dancing on Ice. In 2019, Andy competed in I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!, finishing as runner-up to EastEnders actress Jacqueline Jossa. Off-screen, Andy leads a more stable life than his character, being happily wedded to Nicola Willis. The content pair have been married since 2007 and have two children, Thomas and Hollie. Liz Smith Liz Smith was celebrated for her portrayal of Nana in the BBC comedy. As Barbara Royle's mother, she kept audiences amused with her constant squabbles with Jim. In a poignant episode titled The Queen of Sheba, viewers were moved as Jim broke down in tears by her bedside as she passed away. Jim expressed his deep longing to Barbara, wishing for just one more "bloody row" with her. Liz portrayed Nana from 1998 to 2006 and was honoured with a BAFTA Award nomination for Best Comedy Performance in 2007 for the role. Prior to becoming Nana, she was celebrated for her performances in various BBC sitcoms. Her notable roles included Annie Brandon in I Didn't Know You Cared (1975–1979), the siblings Bette and Belle in 2point4 Children (1991–1999), and Letitia Cropley in The Vicar of Dibley (1994–1996). Liz's portrayal of Mother in the film A Private Function (1984) earned her a BAFTA award. In recognition of her contributions to drama, Liz was appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 2009 New Year Honours. The beloved television icon passed away on Christmas Eve 2016 at the age of 95. Her Royle Family co-star Ralf Little took to Twitter to pay homage, writing: "Devastating to lose two members of my second family in one awful year. RIP Liz Smith. Goodbye Nana. Xxx".
Scottish Sun
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Three Coronation Street legends sign up to money-spinning tour – including star who hasn't been seen for 24 years
Read on to find out which stars will be appearing across the tour's run cobbling on Three Coronation Street legends sign up to money-spinning tour – including star who hasn't been seen for 24 years Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) A TRIO of Coronation Street icons have signed up to the soap's money-spinning tour set to take place this September. The programme revealed it would be allowing its cast members to sign up to a speaking tour, An Audience with Coronation Street, all about the show to travel around the country later this year. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 6 Corrie's cast tour has signed up three show legends Credit: Instagram 6 Amanda Barrie will be reuniting with her Corrie pals for the show Credit: Granada Television 6 She is best known for her role as Alma Halliwell Credit: ITV Now, it has revealed that three veteran stars will be taking part in the tour - including one soap icon who hasn't been seen on screens for 24 years. Current show legend Bill Roache and Barbara Knox, known for their roles as Ken Barlow and Rita Tanner, have both agreed to appear at two stops of the tour each. Bill will appear for one of the show's Salford performances as well as the date at Sunderland's Empire Theatre. Whilst those hoping to catch Barbara, she will appear at the second Salford performance as well as in the capital, London. But someone that fans may be shocked to learn is putting in an appearance is Amanda Barrie. Amanda was famed for playing the role of Alma Halliwell for 20 years before she was killed off the soap. But now she will be chatting all things Corrie once more by agreeing to appear on the tour. Amanda will join the cast in Sheffield and Glasgow to reminisce on her time walking the famous cobbles. The six-show tour will be fronted by This Morning star Sharon Marshall with a whole host of current Corrie favourites appearing at the various dates. Jack P. Shepherd, Samia Longchambon, Andy Whyment and Simon Gregson are all among the cast who are hoping to cash in by participating in the tour. Celebrity Big Brother lads tell Amanda Barrie and Rachel Johnson about the filthy world of DM Jane Danson, Vicky Myers and Sam Aston will also all be taking part. The cast are understood to be able to command a fee for their appearance on the tour - allowing them to top up their soap income in a rare move. Soap stars are often forbidden from seeking employment and cash from anywhere outside of the soap. 6 Barbara Knox will also be on the tour 6 As will Bill Roache Credit: Granada Television
The Irish Sun
09-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Three Coronation Street legends sign up to money-spinning tour – including star who hasn't been seen for 24 years
A TRIO of Coronation Street icons have signed up to the soap's money-spinning tour set to take place this September. The programme revealed it would be allowing its cast members to sign up to a speaking tour, An Audience with Coronation Street, all about the show to travel around the country later this year. Advertisement 6 Corrie's cast tour has signed up three show legends Credit: Instagram 6 Amanda Barrie will be reuniting with her Corrie pals for the show Credit: Granada Television 6 She is best known for her role as Alma Halliwell Credit: ITV Now, it has revealed that three veteran stars will be taking part in the tour - including one soap icon who hasn't been seen on screens for 24 years. Current show legend Bill Roache and Barbara Knox, known for their roles as Ken Barlow and Rita Tanner, have both agreed to appear at two stops of the tour each. Bill will appear for one of the show's Salford performances as well as the date at Sunderland's Empire Theatre . Whilst those hoping to catch Barbara, she will appear at the second Salford performance as well as in the capital, London. Advertisement Read More on Corrie But someone that fans may be shocked to learn is putting in an appearance is Amanda was famed for playing the role of Alma Halliwell for 20 years before she was killed off the soap. But now she will be chatting all things Corrie once more by agreeing to appear on the tour. Amanda will join the cast in Sheffield and Glasgow to reminisce on her time walking the famous cobbles. Advertisement Most read in Soaps Exclusive Exclusive The six-show tour will be fronted by This Morning star Sharon Marshall with a whole host of current Corrie favourites appearing at the various dates. Jack P. Shepherd, Samia Longchambon, Andy Whyment and Celebrity Big Brother lads tell Amanda Barrie and Rachel Johnson about the filthy world of DM The cast are understood to be able to command a fee for their appearance on the tour - allowing them to top up their soap income in a rare move. Advertisement Soap stars are often forbidden from seeking employment and cash from anywhere outside of the soap. 6 Barbara Knox will also be on the tour 6 As will Bill Roache Credit: Granada Television 6 Barbara will appear in both London and Salford Credit: Instagram Advertisement
Yahoo
09-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Soho House: New venue reveals opening date after long delays
A new opening date has been revealed for the UK's latest Soho House location which has been beset by long delays. The private members' club, which is listed on the New York Stock Exchange, is now targeting October as the launch month for its new venue in Manchester. The new location will be based at the top of the old Granada Television building in Quay Street in the city centre. The lower floors have been earmarked for a Mollie's hotel and diner, a brand which is linked to Nick Jones – the founder of Soho House. The Manchester branch of Soho House was originally slated to open in 2022 but that target was missed because of what the group described at the time as 'unforeseen construction delays'. When it finally opens, the new venue will feature a gym, rooftop pool, live music space as well as a members' restaurant. There will also be 23 bedrooms on top of a two-bedroom private apartment and an events space. Membership for access to Soho House in Manchester costs £1,925 a year. People have been paying for their membership to the new location since June 2023 and have been accruing the money paid as 'credits' which can be used when it finally opens. The update comes after City AM reported last month that the private members' club had accused FTSE 100 retail giant Next of copyright and design right infringements over selling furniture that 'closely resembled' that of Soho Home. At the end of March, Soho House revealed its revenue increased by seven per cent in 2024 to $1.2bn. Membership revenue jumped by 17.2 per cent to $418m while in-house sales were flat year-on-year at $481.6m. Soho House chief executive Andrew Carnie said: 'The strong results we delivered in 2024 demonstrate our unrelenting focus on delivering the best member experience and operational excellence across 45 Houses around the world.'
Daily Mirror
07-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Dan Walker's BBC Breakfast exit and death threats after Louis Tomlinson interview
Dan Walker has been a staple on our television screens for years now, but his time in the spotlight has seen its fair share of ups and downs Dan Walker has been a familiar face on television for many years, kick-starting his career as a commentator with Granada Television in 2003 before joining the team at BBC's North West Tonight in 2004. In 2009, he took the reins as host of Football Focus on BBC One and later became the morning host on BBC Breakfast, sharing the screen with Louise Minchin until her exit, and briefly co-hosting with Sally Nugent. His departure from the famous red sofa came as a shock to viewers who had been tuning in to watch him daily for over ten years. It was announced that Dan would be embarking on a new venture as the lead anchor on 5 News. Tonight, the renowned newsreader returns to our screens in a completely different capacity. He will feature in Dead Man Walking: Dan Walker on Death Row, which airs on Channel 5 at 9pm, reports Bristol Live. With considerable anticipation surrounding tonight's episode, where Dan comes face-to-face with a double-murderer, it's hard not to recall his notable exit from BBC Breakfast and an on-air conversation that resulted in him receiving death threats. Why did Dan leave BBC Breakfast? In April 2022, Dan broke the hearts of viewers nationwide when he announced on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he would be stepping down from his role as co-presenter on BBC Breakfast. He revealed his exit from the programme after a 13-year stint, attributing his departure to an irresistible offer from a competing broadcasting heavyweight. At the moment of his announcement, Dan expressed: "It's always been my dream to do a job like this. It feels a bit surreal I won't be sitting on the sofa anymore." Louis Tomlinson complaint In 2020, two years prior to Dan's decision to leave BBC Breakfast, he and co-host Louise Minchin interviewed One Direction's Louis Tomlinson. Despite the star's explicit request to avoid discussing his late mother and sister, the conversation took a turn that ended up covering those very topics. Louis, grappling with loss after his mother passed away from cancer in 2016 and his sister Félicité succumbed to an accidental drug overdose in 2019, announced to his followers: "Defo won't be going on there again," post-interview. This led Dan to publicly inquire about the cause of Louis's discontent on social media. Louis responded, voicing his disappointment: "I was upset that you continued to ask me about my grief. It goes without saying how hard it is to lose both people so close to me. The least I ask is that you respect my decision of not wanting to be asked in interviews about something so painful. "I'm lucky enough to have a creative outlet for me to talk about grief. This doesn't, however, give you the right to talk about it for gossip purposes." Death threats Dan found himself absolutely gobsmacked post-chat with Louis and puzzled by the pop star's discontent over a grief-related question. Opening up on the Gold Minds podcast, hosted by famed ex-Olympian Jessica Ennis-Hill, Dan shared that he faced a barrage of death threats following his televised talk with the singer. The seasoned newsreader defended his line of questioning regarding The One Direction heartthrob's personal loss, emphasizing that the inquiry had been pre-approved by Louis' handlers before the cameras rolled. Relating the stressful episode to Jessica, Dan recounted: "I used to get weird death threats from people. I did an interview with Louis Tomlinson once and I asked him what was a perfectly legitimate question about the death of his mum, and we'd already said to his people that we would ask that, and he took it badly, and wasn't happy with it." He described the intensity of the backlash from One Direction's die-hard fanbase, saying, "You know what it's like with One Direction, there were thousands and thousands of messages coming every 10 minutes. I think five people threatened to kill me that day." Dead Man Walking: Dan Walker on Death Row, with the programme airing on Channel 5 from 9pm.
