Former winner of The X Factor, Shayne Ward, has joined CoronationStreet on a one-year deal, playing Michelle Connor's cousin, Aidan.
Corrie says that Aidan is a distant cousin of Michelle and grew up on the same estate as her and Carla. He turns up in Coronation Street in August after hearing that Carla is having problems at the factory.
Shayne said: "On hearing the news I had been offered the part on the show I was in total disbelief. It still hasn't sunk it. Shayne Ward the lad from Manchester, given such a role on such an iconic show - it is an absolute dream come true. I'm excited to walk down those famous cobbles.
“My family and friends know just how much this means to me and I cannot wait to do them all proud. 2015 has been a great year for me so far and I look forward to joining the Coronation Street family."
Coronation Street producer Stuart Blackburn said: ”When Shayne came in and auditioned we knew he was up against some very stiff competition. But he blew us away from the very get go, delivering a charm and a swagger that is perfect for the character. I can't wait to see him in action!”
While Aidan's easy on the eye, he's no pushover, according to Corrie, and he soon falls out with Tracy Barlow’s ex hubbie Robert Preston, played by Tristan Gemmill.
Aidan is just the first of the new Connor clan to arrive in Weatherfield and will be followed in the coming months by his dad and sister.
Like Shayne, Aidan is from Manchester and has an extended family over in Ireland.
Shayne, who won The X Factor in 2005, has signed a one-year contract with Coronation Street.
