For most people, a 40th birthday is a milestone not to be missed. But for Ryan Hawley, the chance to star in a historic television event was worth postponing the party.
A Birthday Sacrifice for Soap History
The Emmerdale actor has revealed he cancelled his own 40th birthday celebrations to ensure he could film 'Corriedale', the unprecedented hour-long special merging the worlds of Coronation Street and Emmerdale. The episode, which airs on Monday, January 5, promises an explosive car crash stunt and a heartbreaking character death.
'It was my 40th birthday, and I cancelled it,' Hawley admitted. He explained that when producers presented him with the scheduling conflict, his decision was immediate: 'I want to be part of it.' Reflecting on the finished product, the actor expressed immense pride, not only in his own role but in the entire cast and crew.
Robron's Terrifying Ordeal
Hawley's character, Robert Sugden, finds himself at the heart of the drama. He and his boyfriend Aaron Dingle (Danny Miller) are plunged into danger by the return of Robert's sinister half-brother, John Sugden (Oliver Farnworth). John, a sociopathic former army medic, is determined to win back his ex-husband Aaron at any cost – even if it means killing Robert.
Eagle-eyed fans had their suspicions about John's return last year, when his mugshot was spotted on a wanted poster in Weatherfield police station. Now, the villain is back to wreak havoc.
Interactive Fan Vote Still Open
Adding an extra layer of excitement, the episode features an interactive element where viewers can influence the final cut. Fans have until 15 minutes before the episode airs to vote for one of four special scenes to be included.
The options are: Charity Dingle and Carla Connor; Sam Dingle and Kirk Sutherland; Ross Barton and Tracy Barlow; or Nicola King and Roy Cropper. Voting is conducted via a dedicated Instagram post and is only available on mobile devices.
A Collision of Soap Worlds
Written by Owen Lloyd-Fox and directed by Duncan Foster – both veterans of the two soaps – 'Corriedale' brings together a huge ensemble cast from the Dales and Weatherfield. Hawley was full of praise for the creative team, stating he was 'blown away' by the script and Foster's directorial vision.
'You just know 100% you can trust him and he'll get a great performance out of you,' Hawley said of Foster.
But the terror for Robert and Aaron is just one thread in a night of high drama. Other storylines colliding include Charity Dingle's desperate pursuit to protect a secret, a tense wedding party minibus journey, and Carla Connor's race against time to save Lisa Swain.
The episode culminates in the aftermath at Hotten General Hospital, where the injured are treated and families mourn, leaving lives changed forever.
One Thing He Won't Do
Fortunately, Ryan Hawley did manage to reschedule his birthday festivities for a calmer time. However, there's one 40th celebration activity he'll be avoiding: watching 'Corriedale' back. The actor confessed he finds it difficult to watch himself on screen, despite his pride in the project.
With a monumental stunt, a tragic death, and the fusion of Britain's two most iconic soaps, it seems the cake and candles were well worth waiting for.
