Corrie's Bill Webster punches Curly Watts over Maureen
Coronation Street enthusiasts will undoubtedly recall the character of Norman 'Curly' Watts from Weatherfield, who, despite leaving the soap 21 years ago, remains an iconic figure. Kevin Kennedy portrayed Curly in the popular ITV series for two decades, with his character known for a string of unsuccessful romances before finally finding 'true' love.
Making his first appearance on the small screen in the summer of 1983, Curly eventually tied the knot with Rovers Return barmaid Raquel, played by Sarah Lancashire.
The couple quickly became one of Weatherfield's most beloved pairs, but their turbulent marriage sadly ended after just five years.
However, Curly eventually found happiness with his second wife, police officer Emma Taylor, portrayed by Angela Lonsdale. Following a perjury incident in 2003, the couple left the cobbles behind to start a new life in Newcastle-upon-Tyne.
In a brief return for the Coronation Street DVD special A Knight's Tale in 2010, it was revealed that Curly and Emma had separated, putting Curly back on the singles scene, reports the Mirror.
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Since departing Coronation Street 21 years ago, Kevin, now 63, has kept busy writing and producing a show called Spanish Capers, which aired between 2005 and 2007. He also starred in Ben Elton's musical We Will Rock You as a hippie named Pop.
His other television credits include roles in Blue Murder and Doctors in 2006 and Holby City in 2017.
In 2019, Kevin dazzled audiences with a one-off portrayal of Clyde in Mrs Brown's Boys, and between 2018 and 2019, he rocked the stage as Dennis Dupree in Rock of Ages.
The ex-Corrie actor shared his excitement on social media in 2020 with a selfie and announced his film role: "On my way to film my first modest but important movie role!!!"
Post-Corrie, Kevin channelled his experiences into the Kennedy Street Foundation, offering aid to those struggling with addiction and mental health issues, having himself has been on a recovery path from alcoholism for over two decades.
The charity provides a lifeline, with a helpline operated by coaches who are themselves in active recovery, virtual support, and workshops.
Speaking to the Manchester Evening News, Kevin shared, "The Kennedy Street Foundation is my passion; all we want to do is help people who find themselves in the desperate situation I was in 22 years ago."
He emphasised the need for funds, stating:"Our national recovery helpline is receiving calls every day and we really need to raise as much money as possible in order to be able to help each and every one start their own Road2Recovery."
This year finds Kevin weaving magic as His Royal Highness, King Curlington in the Cinderella pantomime in County Durham, with plans to star in the Pretty Vacant UK tour that celebrates punk and the new wave era.
