Coronation Street’s Theo Silverton actor James Cartwright comes from theatrical royalty
Theo in Corrie(Image: ITV)
Coronation Street’s James Cartwright boasts a real-life famous father who fans will recognise.
The actor made his debut on the ITV soap this year, portraying Theo Silverton, the new romantic interest of Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce), and it wasn’t long before sparks started to fly between them.
However, Theo’s true colours soon emerged as he has been manipulating Todd for months, attempting to control every aspect of his life.
Moreover, the abuse has escalated to physical violence. Recently, however, fearing what his partner might do, Todd installed hidden cameras in their home, with a powerful social episode set to broadcast next week.
Read more Sheridan Smith opens up about heartbreaking reason for public breakdown
Away from Coronation Street, James is no stranger to the small screen, including a role on the Tracy Beaker series as Nathan. But it appears that show business runs in his blood…, reports the Mirror.
James’ father is the accomplished writer and dramatist Jim Cartwright. Over the years, Jim has written a vast amount of work, most notably the 1992 play The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, which was adapted into a film in 1998 starring Jane Horrocks and Michael Caine.
Over time, James has collaborated with his famous father on numerous occasions. In 2009, he was cast in the West End revival of his dad’s play The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, taking on the role of Billy.
According to the father-and-son pair, James was the final candidate amongst 30 aspiring actors to try out for the production. Jim shared with The Guardian: “I was so proud. I forgot it was him.”
Accomplished writer and dramatist Jim Cartwright.
James subsequently confessed: “My dad is my best mate.”
James also reminisced about his childhood with his celebrated father, recalling an incident when he was seven years old attending a matinee performance of the original Little Voice. He said: “At the cast picnic afterwards.
“I ate too much, stood on my head and was sick over Pete [Postlethwaite]. But seeing the play made me understand what Dad did. Until then, Dad was just Dad. He played football and scribbled.”
Years later in 2016, Jim and James collaborated once more on another production, a solo performance piece entitled Raz, penned by Jim and featuring James in the lead role.
Discussing the experience of working alongside his father again, James revealed to The Times: “His writing’s in my blood, it’s rich and beautiful. I know what he means instantly.”
Jim then remarked: “Aye, it’s a pleasure when we work together. But it’s not like we’re a theatrical dynasty, like the Redgraves or the Foxes. We’re more like Steptoe and Son.”
