Will Mellor reveals how family tragedy drove him to accept major Coronation Street role

**Will Mellor almost left acting, but there was a reason he couldn’t turn down this role (Picture: Getty)**

47-year-old actor and presenter Will Mellor discusses the popularity of Mr. Bates vs. The Post Office, his almost-quitting-acting experience, his enjoyment of working with Ralf Little on their Two Pints podcast, and why he’s running out of moisturizer so quickly.

You’ve had a hectic start to the year with the postal office v. Mr. Bates.
It has become insane. The magnitude of the show was simply unanticipated. Additionally, because the people and media supported it, it wasn’t just a spectacle. Not only was I invited to go on live chat shows, but I was also asked to go on Sky and ITN news, which I never do. Acting like a real person comes with a lot of responsibility. After all these years, they were given a voice through the drama. And much like I was when I read the script, the general people was incensed by it. I’m rather pleased with it.

**No-one could predict how big the reaction to the series would become (Picture: ITV)**

Did you have any idea it would kick off like it did?

I did tell the director, James Strong, with whom I collaborated on White Van Man and Broadchurch, that if the film succeeds in capturing the public’s interest as I believe it might, it might go incredibly huge. It’s one thing to read about what happened to these folks, but it’s another to see it dramatized and feel enraged. Then, as more individuals signed the petitions, perhaps the process would go more quickly because these folks deserve justice. We must continue until everyone receives their just reward.

Have lots of offers flooded in since then? You’re back on Corrie as Harvey again…

**Will Mellor made a happy return to Coronation Street reprising baddie Harvey Gaskell (Credits: Joseph Scanlon)**

I had a great time playing the character, so they invited me to return to finish it up. I have always indicated that I will comply with Corrie’s request. Another checkbox for Mum, as it’s one of her favorite shows along with Strictly!

I don’t often get to portray villains, and Harvey is a real jerk. However, I intended to spend this year free because a lot is going on. Together with Ralf [Little], I’m filming a four-part drama in Dublin, documenting the Post Office crisis, and touring with the Two Pints podcast. All I want to do is take advantage of every opportunity to pursue my passions.

What can people expect from the tour?

The name of the event is the April Fool’s tour; the hint is in the name. Two years ago, we had a sold-out tour. We perform games, include the audience, and receive humorous stories and questions for our podcast. We also have a fantastic time laughing. If you need advise, we can be your agony aunts. This is your chance to put your cares aside, enjoy a beer with us, and have a little fun.

Why do you and Ralf work so well?

**Will and his two pints co-star Ralf Little are touring are taking their podcast on tour for a second time (Picture:**

since we differ from one another. Because of his political acumen and high level of education, Ralf handles everything that requires some thinking. I take care of the thing about s****ing yourself on the freeway. Our chemistry is effective. I believe that at some point we will be working on more TV together.

Can you believe it’s nearly 30 years since you started in Hollyoaks?

It’s amazing. Time passes quickly. I felt that after my dad died away, I should begin accepting more invitations, thus I firmly. You realize that life is shortening and that you must seize it.

**It’s been 30 years since Will played Jambo in Hollyoaks (Credits: Mike Floyd/Daily Mail/REX/Shutterstock)**

You also present Cops Gone Bad on the Crime + Investigation channel…

I adore true crime and factual television. Wayne Couzens, who has been in the news once more, was the inspiration behind our Cops Who Kill project from last year. All of his coworkers recognized he was in error, yet they took no action.

David Carrick, a prominent serial rapist in the United Kingdom and a police officer assigned to the same Met unit as Wayne Couzens, was featured in the first episode of Cops Gone Bad. When I watch other shows, I shout questions at the TV.

Are you becoming all political?

**Will tries to use his platform for things he’s passionate about (Picture: © A&E Television Networks 1996-2024. All rights reserved.)**

I’m passionate, not political. And if I’m not mistaken—I’m from a council estate—we would band together and support one another if we witnessed that. My work alone does not cause anything to change. It provides me with chances to utilize my platform, if I am able to.

Are you enjoying the opportunities coming your way as you get older?

With everything I have, I am content. I’m still the young person who grew up on the estate, so you can always tell when someone believes in me that you appreciate them. I enjoy being myself, but I also adore performing. This year, I also want to publish a book on my life narrative. I feel like it’s time to share all I want to say and everything I’ve gone through, but it hasn’t happened yet.

**Will is saying yes to more opportunities since the passing of his Dad (Picture: Joe Maher/Getty Images)**

And you’re still doing a bit of modelling at the age of nearly 48…

I’ve got my Cotton Trader’s deal – I cling on for dear life! I don’t know what I’m talking about modelling wise but I’m enjoying it. Why not? I’m going through moisturiser like you wouldn’t believe, though. I’ve got a black spray for the back of my head as well because I’m getting a penalty spot. Ralf found that in my bag on the podcast once and he absolutely killed me.