Coronation Street fans know David Neilson as the beloved Roy Cropper, a character who has been a staple of the ITV soap since his debut in 1995.
While Roy may be known for his quiet, quirky demeanor on screen, the actor behind him is reportedly quite different off-screen,
and his colleagues have shared some fascinating insights into what he’s really like in their popular On The Sofa podcast.
David’s co-stars, including Colson Smith (Craig Tinker), Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt), and Ben Price (Nick Tilsley),
took the opportunity to talk about the veteran actor and how he brings both professionalism and humor to the set.
Despite portraying a somewhat reserved and serious character, David’s real-life persona is filled with energy and a good sense of humor that sets him apart from Roy.
One standout moment Colson Smith recalled was when David went viral during a recent football game. David, a huge football fan, started a chant during the match, and it quickly gained attention across social media. Colson chuckled as he remembered David walking into work the next day with a cheeky smile, saying, “I’ve gone viral, haven’t I?” This playful side of David shows that, while Roy is often the epitome of seriousness, David is far from one-dimensional behind the scenes.
Colson also praised David for his exceptional acting skills, especially when it comes to playing a character as intricate and nuanced as Roy. “It’s a compliment to Dave as an actor and to Roy as a character,” Colson said. “Roy is such a complex character, and the amount of dialogue that Roy gets is incredible. He truly brings Roy to life in a way that’s believable and heartfelt.” The level of depth David brings to the character has undoubtedly made Roy a fan favorite, with his portrayal continuing to evolve after more than two decades.
Ben Price, who plays Nick Tilsley, echoed these sentiments, commending David for the way he has developed Roy over the years. “What’s so impressive about what David does is that he hasn’t just stuck with how Roy was when he first entered the show. He’s pushed him forward, taking the character to new places,” Ben explained. “As Jack mentioned, David finds the smallest details in a scene and explores them fully. These moments make perfect sense within the storyline, and David’s ability to bring these nuances to life shows just how much he’s shaped Roy over time.”
David’s contribution to the soap extends beyond his memorable performances—he’s also had a hand in shaping the direction of his character. Ben shared that David collaborates with the writers, adding his own input to how Roy’s storylines should unfold. His partnership with the writing team has played a significant role in making Roy one of Coronation Street’s most enduring characters, offering depth and layers that have kept fans invested for years.
David’s long tenure on the show is a testament to his talent and dedication. His portrayal of Roy Cropper has placed him at the center of many key storylines, becoming integral to the show’s heart and soul. One of the most memorable moments in Coronation Street history came in 2014, when Roy’s on-screen wife, Hayley (played by Julie Hesmondhalgh), tragically passed away from pancreatic cancer. The emotional and heart-wrenching scenes surrounding Hayley’s death showcased David’s remarkable ability to convey grief and loss with incredible sensitivity.
More recently, David was again thrust into the spotlight in a gripping storyline where Roy was accused of killing Lauren Bolton, played by Cait Fitton. His involvement in such high-stakes plots proves that, despite his quiet nature, Roy remains a central figure in Coronation Street’s ever-evolving narrative.
As David Neilson approaches even more years on the show, he has undoubtedly solidified his place as one of Coronation Street’s most legendary stars. His co-stars’ glowing praise reflects the respect and admiration they have for him, both as an actor and as a person. David’s dedication to his craft, his sense of humor, and his ability to keep his character fresh and relevant have made him a true icon on the cobbles.
As Coronation Street fans continue to follow Roy’s journey, it’s clear that David Neilson will remain a key figure in the soap’s rich history. Whether he’s making us laugh with his off-screen antics or moving us with his powerful on-screen performances, David is a true testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted character and the talent of an actor who has become synonymous with the world of Weatherfield.
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