Coronation Street Blog: William Roache 90th birthday tribute to be aired by ITV

He’s the heart and soul of Coronation Street and to commemorate his 90th birthday, ITV is proud to present Happy Birthday Bill, a documentary celebrating the life and career of William Roache.

Produced by Lifted Entertainment, part of ITV Studios, Happy Birthday Bill will look back on the legacy and achievements of the acting legend as he reaches a milestone birthday.

After over 60 years as street stalwart Ken Barlow, William holds the Guinness World Record as the longest running TV soap star. With special appearances from cast members past and present, as well as his own family, the documentary will look back on the moments and the people that have helped shape both William and Ken.

William said: “I don’t feel nearly ninety at all. The Coronation Street cast are like a second family to me and I can’t quite believe I’ve been lucky enough to play Ken Barlow for over 60 years. It’s also been lovely revisiting past memories and remembering all the wonderful things I have seen and done over the years. I hope the viewers enjoy watching the documentary as much as I did making it.”

Cameras will capture a glimpse of William’s life off set at home with his family, as well as his experiences behind the scenes on the show he has called home since it began in December 1960. Viewers will also learn more about William’’s history before Coronation Street, as he returns to his old army barracks in which he served before winning the role that changed his life.

Here he is with on-screen wife Valerie Barlow (actress Anne Reid).