Marc Baylis has opened up about his surprise return to Coronation Street as Rob Donovan, revealing some intriguing details about what’s in store for the character in 2025.
‘It was a pleasant surprise,’ Marc said about getting the call to reprise his role. ‘It’s always a welcome call, and the timing worked out perfectly. I liked the idea of the storyline, and I was more than happy to have a chat with Kate [Brooks, executive producer].’
Marc explained, ‘I’ve always been fascinated with his childhood, and this story touches on that part of his and Carla’s life. It gives us a little window into why Rob is the way he is. But there’s also fun to be had with him, as there always is. The balance of those two things is brilliant to play with.’
One of the biggest shocks for Marc was discovering that Rob has a son, Bobby. ‘I found out while walking through a supermarket and seeing it on a magazine cover!’ he laughed. ‘It’s nice because we’ve never touched on that side of Rob before. It adds a layer to him. He’s not exactly a role model, but there’s so much to explore in that relationship.’
When Bobby visits Rob in prison, things take a dramatic turn as they’re caught up in a hostage situation. Marc teased, ‘There’s an escalation involving Matty Radcliffe, but all is not as it seems. Rob doesn’t want to see Bobby in danger, but there’s something else happening in the background. What that is, viewers will have to wait and see.’
As for Rob’s feelings about Carla, Marc said, ‘He loves his sister. Carla is the closest relationship he’s had. Despite their history, there’s a lot of love there. When he hears what’s been happening to her, it absolutely affects him.’
After seven years in prison, Rob has changed. ‘It’s been a long time,’ Marc shared. ‘Prison hasn’t been easy for him. He has huge regrets, particularly about what he did to Tina. We’ll see some of his genuine feelings on screen, but with Rob, there are always motives. That might get him into trouble again.’
Reflecting on stepping back into Rob’s shoes, Marc admitted to initial nerves. ‘I wondered if I could find Rob again, but once I started thinking about his relationship with Bobby, it all fell into place. The scripts helped too – he was just there, ready to go.’
Marc also shared what fans can expect from Rob’s return. ‘There are heartfelt moments with people Rob loves, darker sides to him, and a glimpse into a man who needs more support than he’s getting. It’s a joy to play him again.’
Coronation Street airs Rob’s return this week on ITV1
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