Viewers of the dramatic Corriedale storyline on Coronation Street have been left reeling by a shocking revelation about one of the soap's most sinister villains. While fans have watched Theo Silverton's abusive control over Todd Grimshaw for months, many were stunned to realise the actor behind the role, James Cartwright, is a familiar face from a beloved children's series.
Theo's Deadly Deeds in Corriedale
The character's vile actions reached a horrifying climax during the explosive multi-vehicle pile-up that kicked off the Corriedale event. After months of manipulation and violence, Todd's ordeal was finally exposed to vicar Billy Mayhew. Their plan to escape was thwarted when Theo joined them on a minibus. Realising Billy knew the truth, Theo trapped the vicar in the burning vehicle by buckling his seatbelt back in, leading to Billy's tragic death in the subsequent explosion on January 5, 2026.
Social Media Erupts with Recognition
The shocking twist was compounded for many fans by a sudden wave of recognition. Social media platform X (formerly Twitter) lit up with posts from viewers connecting the dots. One user, Wanda, expressed widespread disbelief, writing: "WAIT THIS HORRIBLE ABUSING MAN IS NATHAN FROM TRACY BEAKER??? #Corriedale". The sentiment was echoed by countless others who remembered James Cartwright from his role as trainee careworker Nathan Jones in the hit CBBC show The Story of Tracy Beaker.
Fans were baffled by the actor's dramatic career shift, having played the kind-hearted Nathan in 40 episodes between 2003 and 2004. The contrast between the two characters left many struggling to accept they were portrayed by the same person, with posts flooding in expressing amazement and refusal to believe the connection.
James Cartwright's Varied Career
Beyond his iconic role in Tracy Beaker, James Cartwright has built a substantial acting portfolio. He is well-known to radio drama fans for playing Harrison Burns in The Archers from 2014 to 2025. Audiences may also have spotted him in a cinematic role, portraying Tony Sellick in the 2019 Downton Abbey movie.
Discussing his Coronation Street character's dark development, Cartwright hinted at more danger to come. He stated that Theo has evolved from a "complicated man" to a "very dangerous man" whose internal damage is now manifesting uncontrollably, putting others at serious risk. This suggests Todd's nightmare is far from over, as Theo is unlikely to let go easily.
Coronation Street continues to air on ITV1 and ITVX, Monday to Friday at 8.30pm.
