Alan Rothwell, who plays David Barlow in Coronation Street, dies aged 89

Alan Rothwell’s family announced the actor’s passing. Ele was 89 years old and died in hospital on Thursday after a brief illness. Rothwell was part of the original cast of ITV’s British soap opera Coronation Street from the first episode in 1960.

The interpreter brought to life David Barlow, brother of Ken Barlow, character of William Roache. Sua participation lasted until 1969, with comings and goings on paper. The production killed the character off-screen years later.

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. pic.twitter.com/jxUjLvQulM

— Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) May 14, 2026

Família releases statement on loss

The family sent a note to Press Association. The text describes Rothwell as a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle. Ele was missed by family, friends and colleagues. The statement highlights a career spanning more than 70 years in radio, television, cinema and theater.

Rothwell was born Oldham on February 9, 1937. Coronation Street’s creator, Tony Warren, chose him for the role after previously working together on the BBC children’s program Radio. The actor created an iconic character that marked the beginning of the soap opera.

• Atuou in over 250 episodes as David Barlow
• Participou from series like Gideon’s Way and The Villains in the 1960s
• Viveu Nicholas Black in Brookside, from Channel 4, in the 1980s
• Apresentou children’s programs Picture Box and Hickory House
• Teve career that included appearances in Emmerdale and Heartbeat

William Roache pays tribute to his colleague

William Roache, the only survivor alongside Anne Cunningham among the initial cast, lamented the news. Ele remembered the first episodes of the soap opera as a wonderful time. Roache described Rothwell as a great actor and a charming man. Enviou condolences to the family.

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The two have worked together since the beginning of the attraction. The coexistence continued over the years. The production of Coronation Street also released an official statement. The spokesperson lamented the death and extended solidarity to the family.

Trajetória includes varied work on British television

Rothwell first left Coronation Street in 1961 to pursue other roles. Retornou in later periods until 1968. Depois, pursued a career with a constant presence on TV. Ele appeared in productions such as Top Secret, a spy series, and did five episodes as a reverend in Heartbeat.

The actor also acted in cinema and theater. Seu’s face became familiar to several generations because of the children’s programs he presented. His career began early and spanned decades.

Coronation Street recognizes actor’s contribution

The soap opera, still on the air after more than 65 years, recalled Rothwell’s role as one of the original cast members. The David Barlow character has become memorable since debut. The production reinforced that he will be remembered for creating an iconic figure in the attraction’s history.

Fãs and colleagues followed the actor’s trajectory over time. The death occurs at a time when there are few survivors left from the initial group in 1960. The family asked for privacy at this time of mourning.

Rothwell passed away peacefully in the hospital. The brief illness was not publicly detailed. The wake and burial follow a family schedule, with no information released so far.