Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd lands role away from ITV soap after 26 years

Coronation Street star Jack P Shepherd is stepping out from the familiar cobbles of Weatherfield to make his pantomime debut this festive season, marking a thrilling new chapter in his career. Nearly 26 years after he first appeared on the iconic ITV soap, the actor is set to entertain audiences in Wales in the classic production of Sleeping Beauty.

From David Platt To Pantomime Star

Born on Christmas Day 1990, Jack first joined Coronation Street in 2000, taking over the role of David Platt from Thomas Ormson. At just 12 years old, he stepped into a character that would become central to some of the soap’s most memorable storylines over the next two and a half decades.

Originally signing up for a three-month stint, Jack has since become one of the show’s most recognizable faces, known for his gripping performances and for navigating some of the series’ most intense narratives. Beyond the cobbles, he also ventured into reality television last year, emerging victorious on ITV’s Celebrity Big Brother, further cementing his place in the hearts of the British public.

Now, the actor is set to take on a very different challenge: the world of pantomime.

Llandudno’s Venue Cymru Welcomes Jack

This Christmas, Jack will star alongside John Evans and Simon Neehan in Sleeping Beauty at Venue Cymru, with performances running from December 12 to January 2, 2027. Speaking about the role, Jack said:

“I’m delighted to be joining the cast in Llandudno this festive season and can’t wait to entertain audiences in this year’s pantomime.”

Amanda Guy, Section Head at Venue Cymru, added:

“We are thrilled to welcome Jack P Shepherd to Venue Cymru for Sleeping Beauty. Jack is one of the country’s most recognisable and popular television stars, and we’re delighted that he will be making his pantomime debut with us in Llandudno. Our audiences can look forward to another magical festive production packed with laughter, music and family fun.”

This exciting career move comes in the wake of a reported rule change at ITV, which now allows actors to take temporary breaks from their soap commitments to pursue theatre roles. This flexibility means that stars from Coronation Street and Emmerdale can now explore stage performances without needing to quit their longstanding television roles.

Celebrating Personal Milestones

Jack’s professional news coincides with a joyful personal milestone: the birth of his fourth child and first with wife Hanni Treweek. The couple welcomed a baby girl, Constance Ita Shepherd, on June 26, 2026. Sharing a heartfelt announcement on Instagram, Hanni revealed a first glimpse of their daughter, holding her tiny hand in a tender family moment.

“Constance Ita Shepherd [heart emoji] Our beautiful baby girl has arrived, born peacefully at home, surrounded by love,” the post read, capturing the hearts of fans and fellow cast members alike. The couple’s announcement also highlighted the intimacy of the birth, which took place at home and reflected the joy and warmth surrounding their expanding family.

A Career Built On Iconic Storylines

Jack’s tenure as David Platt has been nothing short of legendary. From dramatic family feuds to intense personal story arcs, the character has been at the center of some of the soap’s most talked-about moments. Yet, despite a career so deeply rooted in Weatherfield, Jack has shown a willingness to explore new creative avenues, with his Celebrity Big Brother victory and now his pantomime debut marking exciting departures from his soap persona.

Fans have reacted with a mix of excitement and pride, celebrating Jack’s ability to balance long-term commitment to a beloved television series while branching out into new performance challenges. Social media has been abuzz with support, with many noting that his charm, energy, and stage presence are perfectly suited to the festive pantomime format.

What This Means For Corrie Fans

Jack’s pantomime debut will give fans a chance to see the actor in a lighter, more theatrical context, contrasting with the darker and often emotionally heavy storylines of Coronation Street. While David Platt will remain on the cobbles, viewers can enjoy Jack’s versatile talent in a family-friendly, festive setting, ensuring his legacy extends beyond the television screen.

Moreover, the move illustrates a broader trend for British soap actors, who are increasingly able to diversify their careers without severing ties to long-running series. For Jack, this represents both a personal and professional evolution, blending the nostalgia of a 26-year soap legacy with the excitement of live theatre.

Looking Ahead

With Sleeping Beauty set to run throughout the Christmas and New Year period, audiences in Llandudno are in for a treat. Jack’s participation promises to bring a fresh, star-powered energy to the stage, combining his experience in high-stakes drama with the comedic and musical timing required for a pantomime performance.

Fans will undoubtedly be tuning in to witness Jack’s first performance, cheering on a star who has grown up before their eyes on Weatherfield and is now ready to embrace a new stage. Meanwhile, the Shepherd family celebrates a milestone year with the arrival of baby Constance, adding a personal triumph to Jack’s professional achievements.

A Star on the Rise

From his early days on Coronation Street to his Celebrity Big Brother victory and now a pantomime debut, Jack P Shepherd’s career trajectory showcases an actor willing to challenge himself while staying connected to the fans who have supported him for over two decades. His story serves as a reminder of the talent, dedication, and versatility required to remain relevant in the fast-moving world of British television and theatre.

Whether on the cobbles or the pantomime stage, Jack continues to captivate audiences, proving that even after 26 years in a single role, there’s always room to grow, surprise, and entertain.