A former Coronation Street star is making a surprise return to Weatherfield after more than two decades, but viewers may not recognize him at first glance. Jake Parry, who originally appeared as baby Simon Barlow 23 years ago, is set to rejoin the cobbles in an entirely new role.
Damo Arrives on the Cobbles
Jake Parry will debut as Damo, a character who tumbles out of a car onto the infamous street. His arrival coincides with the introduction of Idris Nazir, played by Junade Khan. Damo will appear in the episode airing on May 26, as confirmed by Parry on TikTok.
In a social media post, Jake shared a preview of his appearance, captioning it: 'It’s a pleasure and an honor to be back on this great show, DAMO is coming next week.' He later clarified in the comments: 'For anyone wondering I played Simon Barlow with my brother when I was a baby, I have now [come] back as a different character DAMO.'
A Familiar Face with a New Identity
Jake Parry originally appeared on Coronation Street alongside his twin brother, Oscar, as baby Simon Barlow, son of Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) and Lucy Richards (Katy Carmichael). The character was written out when Lucy moved to Australia, later returning after her off-screen death, with the role taken over by Alex Bain, who remained on the show until 2024.
Since his infant role, Jake has built a steady acting career, appearing in films such as The Awakening and It Feels Like This, as well as TV roles in Red Rose, Doctors, and Mount Pleasant.
Idris Nazir Makes an Impression
Damo will debut in the same episode as Idris Nazir, the cousin of Alya Nazir (Sair Khan). Idris immediately catches the attention of future love interest Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson). The storyline begins when a group of rowdy businessmen drop curry on Brody Michaelis’ (Ryan Mulvey) trainers at Speed Daal. Idris intervenes, ensuring the teen is compensated for the damage.
Revealing that he has purchased a property agency in Manchester, Idris is soon approached by Brody for a job opportunity. However, their encounter takes a turn when Idris crosses paths with Damo, dragging the youngster into a ginnel.
Junade Khan Teases Idris's Background
Junade Khan, who plays Idris, shared insights into his character: 'He’s multi-layered and incredibly ambitious. As a child, he suffered a lot of hardship and neglect, so he’s had to overcome those obstacles entirely on his own. He’s a lone wolf – the black sheep of the family who has made a name for himself. He’s addicted to success and the finer things in life, but there’s a real vulnerability there, too.'
Regarding the connection between Idris and Leanne, Khan added: 'They actually recognise each other from a family wedding where they sat at the same table. He’s used to flashy people, but when he sees Leanne fending off a group of guys who aren’t paying their bill, he sees a strength in her that he admires. It reminds him of his own mother, who raised him as a single parent.'
A Second Corrie Stint for Junade Khan
Like Jake Parry, this is not Junade Khan’s first time on Coronation Street. He previously appeared nearly 20 years ago in 2008 as Saj, a love interest for Rosie Webster (Helen Flanagan). 'She’d been kidnapped by John Stape, and we met in a nightclub. My character was called Saj, though Helen Flanagan called me ‘Sarge’ which was funny!' Khan recalled. 'I remember being in the Rovers with Sally, Gail and Carla. Coming back now, I saw Alison King and said, ‘I’ve seen you before!’ It’s a bit surreal, but it feels right to be back.'
