THE ULTIMATE TIME WARP: CORONATION STREET BRINGS BACK SIMON BARLOW ACTOR AFTER 23 YEARS WITH A JAW-DROPPING TWIST

Fans of Coronation Street are in for a nostalgic surprise as the long-running ITV soap welcomes back a familiar face — though viewers may not recognize him at first glance.

Jake Parry, who originally appeared on the cobbles more than two decades ago as baby Simon Barlow alongside his twin brother Oscar, is officially returning to the series. This time, however, he’s stepping into an entirely new role.

Jake Parry Returns To Corrie — But Not As Simon Barlow

In a touching full-circle moment for longtime fans, Jake Parry is rejoining the world of Coronation Street 23 years after his original appearance on the soap. While he once portrayed Simon Barlow as an infant, the actor is now returning as a brand-new character named Damo.

The character is set to appear in a one-episode guest stint next week, with scenes tied directly to the developing storyline involving Leanne Battersby and newcomer Idris Nazir.

According to early previews, Damo dramatically tumbles out of a car during the unfolding drama — instantly sparking curiosity among viewers ahead of the episode’s broadcast.

Jake Teases His Return On Social Media

Ahead of his on-screen comeback, Jake shared a teaser clip on TikTok announcing his return to Weatherfield.

“It’s a pleasure and an honor to be back on this great show,” he wrote. “DAMO is coming next week.”

The actor later clarified the connection longtime viewers may have missed, explaining that he previously played Simon Barlow as a baby alongside his brother Oscar.

“For anyone wondering, I played Simon Barlow with my brother when I was a baby,” Jake shared. “I have now come back as a different character, DAMO, which is out next week.”

He also confirmed that the episode is scheduled to air on May 26.

Jake Parry’s Career Since Leaving Coronation Street

Since his early days on Coronation Street, Jake Parry has continued building a successful acting career across television and commercial work.

The actor is perhaps best known more recently for appearing in the hit drama Red Rose, while also featuring in several advertising campaigns over the years.

His return to the ITV soap marks another major milestone — and one likely to delight longtime Corrie viewers who appreciate the show’s deep history and legacy casting moments.

New Romance Brewing For Leanne Battersby

Jake’s return also arrives amid a significant new storyline for Leanne Battersby.

The character is set to develop a romance with Idris Nazir, a newcomer introduced as Alya Nazir’s cousin. Actor Junade Khan recently opened up about Idris and Leanne’s growing connection, hinting at a relationship built on authenticity rather than appearances.

“Idris likes Leanne a great deal because she’s real,” Junade explained. “He has a flashy lifestyle, but when his path crosses with Leanne, he realises that she’s genuinely a real person and that attracts him to her.”

The actor also revealed that Idris initially recognizes Leanne from a past family connection linked to her late ex-partner Kal Nazir, adding another emotional layer to the storyline.

As the new romance unfolds — and with Damo’s mysterious arrival set to shake things up — next week’s episodes are already shaping up to be must-watch television for Coronation Street fans.