ITV Coronation Street newcomer Rowan’s real identity and plan for Leanne exposed

Coronation Street newcomer Rowan is hiding something huge, and Leanne Battersby could be in danger.

The character, played by actor Emrhys Cooper, debuted on the show recently as the host of a seminar for a place called The Institute. Leanne took stepson Simon Barlow along amid him being troubled, and almost going to prison.

Leanne got talking to Rowan and he told her all about the institute and what it aims for, leaving Leanne inspired. Days later they crossed paths again, and Leanne was won over by the wellness mentor’s next seminar which she attended, with her and Simon clearly keen to hear what else Rowan had to say.

But in upcoming scenes, it’s teased there could be more to Rowan as one character grows suspicious of his behaviour and his promotion of the Autovalent Institute, amid the soap tackling a cult storyline. Leanne’s sister Toyah Battersby seems keen to work out what Rowan is really up to.

Speaking to The Mirror and other press, actor Emrhys spilled all on what Rowan is really up to and what fans can expect from him, as he also revealed why the character is targeting Leanne. He said: “Rowan’s main role at Autovalent is recruitment.

“He travels all over to present conferences and seminars, identifying the more receptive people and encouraging them into the fold. Once he’s done that, he schools them in how to recruit others. Rowan does not view Autovalent as a con.

“He can see people that are more susceptible. He can definitely see that Leanne is packing a lot, and he knows the right buttons to press. It’s going to be interesting to see what he does. [Fans should] keep an eye on what he’s gonna get up to.”

On Rowan’s involvement in the organisation, the actor went on: “It’s been brilliant for him, and he credits the organisation with totally turning his life around. He was a wild lad in his youth, and when he got into a fight and was arrested he resolved to change course.

“It was joining Autovalent that saved him.” On whether he will let Toyah get in the way of his plans for Leanne, he said: “Rowan isn’t fazed by Toyah’s reaction. He’s used to it. He wholeheartedly believes in the cause and isn’t thrown easily.

“What you’ve seen of Rowan so far is only the tip of the iceberg. He’s very clever and good at what he does, and yes, Leanne is in awe of him.

“There’ll be other residents who’ll be in his thrall, and may find themselves in the Institute after reading the upcoming scripts, I’m struck with just how many similarities and parallels I have to this storyline. It’s art imitating life.”