Coronation Street star Samia Longchambon reveals unexpected connection to late Alan Rothwell
Corrie legend Alan Rothwell died this week aged 89, and cobbles star Samia Longchambon has revealed their connection which goes beyond the ITV soap.
Samia Longchambon has revealed she was taught drama by late Coronation Streat legend Alan Rothwell.
The Corrie star, who has played Maria Connor on the ITV soap since 2000, has paid tribute to the cobbles icon following his death this week aged 89, which came after a "short illness".
She wrote on Instagram: "So sad to hear this. Alan was a also drama teacher at our drama school and I have such fond memories of being taught by him.. he was a wonderful man."
Rothwell is best known for playing Ken Barlow's brother David in Corrie's original cast, from 1960 to 1969.
On Thursday (14.05.26), his family confirmed in a statement: "Alan was a professional radio, television, film and stage actor and director whose career spanned more than 70 years.
"Alan died peacefully in hospital following a short illness.
"Beyond his professional achievements, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle.
"He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues and the many people whose lives he touched through his work."
The longrunning soap paid tribute to Rothwell after the sad news, describing his performances as "iconic and memorable".
They wrote: "We’re very sorry to hear of Alan Rothwell’s passing and extend our sincerest condolences to his family at this very sad time.
"He created an iconic and memorable character in David Barlow and will forever be remembered as one of the original cast members of Coronation Street."
Bill Roache was also among those to remember the late star, as he reflected on their early days working together as on-screen brothers.
He said: "I am very sorry to hear of Alan’s passing.
"He and I worked together on the very first episodes of Coronation Street, which was such a wonderful time, I got to know him well over the years, he was a very good actor and a delightful man.
"I send my thoughts and condolences to his family."
Rothwell, also known for playing Jimmy Grange in The Archers, was cast in Corrie for its TV debut, and he would play the role of David one and off over an eight year spell.
He was written out after a year, but made occasional returns between 1963 and 1964, before securing a regular stint until 1968.
Two years later, the character - who had a love for football - was killed off off-screen.
Elsewhere in his career, Rothwell appeared in soaps like Brookside and Emmerdale, as well as medical drama Casualty.
He also had credits in All Creatures Great And Small, The Musketeers and Queer As Folk.
