Coronation Street star Peter Ash has spoken about the final weeks ahead for his character
Paul Foreman’s Motor Neurone Disease (MND) storyline. Paul’s time on the show will come to
an end within the next few weeks, as cast and crew were recently spotted filming
the popular character’s funeral episode.
Viewers saw Paul receive his MND diagnosis in April last year and the ITV soap has since been exploring his journey living with the condition.
Although Paul initially intended to end his own life before the illness fully progressed, he has since reconsidered his decision and promised his husband Billy Mayhew that he wants to live for as long as possible.
Discussing what’s ahead, Peter told Digital Spy: “We are gearing towards the end of Paul’s story, so it’s going to be sad. It’s something we’re obviously expecting to happen, because there is no cure for MND.
“They’re really emotional scenes, coming to the end of Paul’s story.”
He continued: “We’ve been slowly preparing for a year and a half, since we started this story, knowing that it was building up to this.
“It’s just been making the most of the final moments with the amazing cast and crew, that I’ve been so lucky to work with over the past six years.
“Right up until the end, Paul is still saying his one-liners. He’s saying it through the machine, but he’s still saying it. I don’t think he’s lost any of that humour, it’s just obviously that when his time comes, that’s it.
“I feel so proud to have been part of this storyline, that’s managed to raise awareness for such a cruel disease. I’m just eternally grateful to be part of that.”
Asked about future projects, he laughed: “I have no idea, I’d just be happy to be working again! Anything â TV, film, radio, bring it on, I don’t care!”
Peter has been nominated for the Best Actor and Best Storyline prizes at the Inside Soap Awards 2024. He has also secured a joint nomination with co-star Daniel Brocklebank (Billy) for the Best Partnership award.
“It’s amazing â I really feel honoured to be listed among the nominees, it’s great,” Peter added.
“Everyone at Corrie really gives their all. It’s a real family and we’ve all got each other’s backs.”
