Coronation Street Denny star’s real life soap past as he returns for tragic storyline
Coronation Street actor Danny Cunningham is reprising his role as Denny, the father of twins Paul and Gemma and the ex of Bernie Winter this week
Danny Cunningham, who made an appearance in Coronation Street earlier this year as Paul Foreman’s estranged father Denny, has actually had previous roles in soaps.
Denny was brought into the storyline surrounding Paul’s tragic MND diagnosis. He is the father of twins Paul and Gemma, and Bernie Winter’s ex-partner.
His arrival in Weatherfield came after learning about Paul’s MND diagnosis. However, his relationship with his ex Bernie and their children was fraught from the start, leading to a brief stay in Weatherfield.
Now, following Paul’s death, he is set to return.
Interestingly, this isn’t Danny’s first time on Coronation Street. He first graced the cobbles back in 2000, playing a character named Jimmy Sykes, brother to Mike Baldwin’s wife Linda, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Coronation Street’s Paul Foreman suffered a tragic end (
ITV)
Danny’s initial stint on Corrie lasted for around 16 episodes before he left in 2001.
Additionally, he’s also had a role in ITV soap Emmerdale, where he portrayed Connor Cooper for 13 episodes between 2020 and 2021, sharing scenes with Paul Ashdale.
Beyond the world of soaps, the actor has featured in the popular BBC series Happy Valley as Toby Millward. Other roles include parts in New Tricks, Last Tango in Halifax, Holby City, Waterloo Road and Casualty.
Danny’s career spans decades, including appearances in Grange Hill in the 90s, as well as Heartbeat, Soldier Soldier, Peak Practice, Cracker, The Bill and Shameless.
Danny is set to make a comeback to Coronation Street as Denny in the episode airing on October 2, where he’ll be seen at Paul’s heart-wrenching funeral conducted by Billy. Spoilers hint that Billy spots Paul’s estranged father lurking around the church and quickly realises that Denny is under the influence.
Billy, aware of the potential outrage if Denny is spotted due to his previous scheme to rob Paul, instructs him to remain out of sight. It’s yet to be seen whether the funeral will proceed smoothly with Denny’s presence, particularly if Bernie or Gemma catch sight of him.
Paul, brought to life by actor Peter Ash, tragically passed away in September after a long fight with Motor Neurone Disease. His health had been progressively worsening over recent months, leading to scenes where he was unable to speak or eat unaided.
Coronation Street collaborated closely with the MND Association for Paul’s storyline. For his outstanding portrayal of Paul, actor Peter bagged a National Television Award earlier this year.
