Coronation Street star Emrhys Cooper has spoken out for the first time following his exit as Rowan Cunliffe.

The character finally got his comeuppance in Monday’s episode (December 2) of the ITV soap, after committing fraud and

blackmail in his role as leader of cult The Institute.

After a tense trial that saw Leanne lose her temper in court during a cross-examination from Rowan’s defence barrister, a

guilty verdict was reached.

Taking to Instagram, Cooper shared some photos from his time on the soap and reflected on his experience, writing: “About this time last year, I found out I got the part on @coronationstreet in the middle of the night!

“I was living in California at the time when I checked my phone and there it was… the big news. An incredible early Christmas present.

“I had been quite homesick for a while and felt the urge to move back to the UK to be closer to my family after living in the USA for the past 15 years.”

The actor noted how Rowan’s cult storyline “resonated with my personal journey and childhood,” having previously revealed that his parents were in a cult 22 years ago, and he made a movie about a sham guru (The Shuroo Process) similar to Rowan.

“Getting this part felt like a sure sign from the universe that it was written in the stars for me to return home. I haven’t looked back,” he added, describing his time on Corrie as “one of the most incredible professional experiences of my life”.

Cooper went on to thank the Corrie cast and crew, before concluding: “Lastly, I want to say I will forever be grateful to the amazing fans who embraced the evil Rowan despite all his dastardly deeds. Also, thank you, Manchester!”