The former Coronation Street actor’s death was announced by his wife this morning(Image: (Image: ITV))
Former Coronation Street star John Saint Ryan has died at the age of 72 after suffering a heart attack. The actor was known for his role as lorry driver Charlie Whelan in the early 90s.
His wife Joyce shared the news that he died on April 3, surrounded by family. Posting a tribute online she said: “I and our family want to let our friends know that John had a heart attack the evening of Thursday 3rd of April.
“We were with him at the hospital where the staff did everything possible but unfortunately he did not survive. We are absolutely heartbroken. John wanted to aid medical research and donated his body, so there will not be a funeral. Later, we will arrange a celebration of his wonderful life.”
She continued: “We are all fortunate to have known and loved this special ‘Gentleman’ as he has been described to me numerous times over the last couple of days.”
Born in Burnley, Lancashire, in 1953, John initially worked as a martial arts teacher before transitioning into acting. He first appeared as a stunt double for Sean Connery in The Medicine Man, then made his acting debut in Channel 4’s G.B.H. in 1983.
He also had a stint in Emmerdale as Jameson before landing his memorable role in Coronation Street, according to the Express.
As long-distance lorry driver Charlie Whelan, he captured viewers’ hearts when he began a relationship with iconic Rovers Return landlady Bet Gilroy (played by Julie Goodyear) during her separation from husband Alec Gilroy (Roy Barraclough), reports the Manchester Evening News.
However, when barmaid Tanya Pooley (Eva Pope) targeted him for revenge on Bet, he fell for her.
They eloped to Germany together but it was short-lived, with Tanya ditching Charlie once he’d fulfilled his role, marking the end of his year on the soap.
After his time on the soap, he relocated to California in the 1990s where he continued to thrive. He had supporting roles in films and TV series including Buffy the Vampire Slayer, General Hospital, Murder, She Wrote, Cybill and The Heidi Chronicles.
He also portrayed the main villain in the sci-fi film American Cyborg: Steel Warrior.
Off-screen, he owned and ran a cattle ranch named Red Rose Ranch where he trained horses and riders in dressage and western riding.
He himself was an expert in the doma vaquera style of riding and won numerous national and international titles in the sport over the years.
He is survived by Joyce and leaves behind three sons.
