Sol Heras, the new actor who plays Ryan Connor chats about getting his dream job on the cobbles!
Q. How do you feel about joining the Street as Ryan?
It was my first ever casting, one of those jobs that you always hope will come along. I had my screen test with Kym Marsh (Michelle) and Brooke Vincent (Sophie), which was enough for me, even if I didn’t get it! I got a phone-call earlier than I expected, so I was convinced it was bad news. My Mum was in the room with me and my agent just said: ‘Three words – you’ve got it!’
Q. How difficult is it to take over a role previously played by another actor?
It helped me a little bit. I went to the supermarket to buy dark hair dye as my hair is dark but not as dark as his! The character has changed quite a lot.
Q. What TV work have you done previously?
The show most people will know me from is Rock Rivals, with Michelle Collins, who plays Stella.
Q. Are you ready for the fame a role on Corrie will bring?
With Rock Rivals, people would occasionally approach me, but nothing too major. I’ve not really contemplated the reaction, although I have started wearing a hat – just in case people ask me questions and I don’t know how to answer!
Q. Are you or your family fans of the show?
My whole family are fans of the show. It’s a dream job; I was in it before, in a very small role and didn’t think I would have the chance again. I’ve grown up in a Northern, working class family. Corrie is part of our genetics.
Q. Where does your name Sol come from?
It comes from my Dad’s side. He is originally from Madrid, so it’s Spanish.
Q. Has Ryan changed since we last saw him? How?
Ryan went away to find himself. After two years, he is back after being thrown out of University, although he doesn’t tell Michelle this. He makes out to her that leaving was his decision. His personality on the whole has taken a major detour.
Q. How do Ryan and Rob get on?
They grew up together. They were close when they were younger, but it has been about eight years since they have seen each other. Rob is just out of prison, trying to make a fresh start running the factory. He tries to help Ryan; he can see he is in need of it, but Ryan just throws it back in his face.
Q. Ryan seems to have an eye for the ladies. Who do you think would make a good match?
Anybody! Married, single, the more the merrier for Ryan! I think he would probably quite like a cougar!
Q. How was your first day? Were you star struck?
I was like a rabbit in headlights! I was with Brooke Vincent at Kevin’s house, trying to make out like I knew what I was doing. My second day was in the Rovers, I tried to get in through the front doors until I realised that wasn’t the way in. When I finally made it into the studio, it took a few minutes for me to realise where I was – the Rovers really is at the heart of Coronation Street. It was much smaller than I imagined. I was terrified on my first day, but everybody was lovely. It really is like one big, happy family.
Q. Will you watch your first episode?
I’ll think I’ll watch the first few by myself – just to make sure I’m not too terrible!
Watch out for Sol's first appearance on July 20th and see his arrival in picture previews now.
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