Two actors who worked together for over a decade were back together again
Coronation Street fans said their ‘hearts are full’ after a ‘perfect reunion’ occurred at British Soap Awards 2025.
Despite the event taking place at Hackney Empire in London on Saturday night (May 31), soap fans had to wait until Thursday night (June 5) to see it all unfold.
It was widely known heading into the night that EastEnders were the big winners, winning eight awards in its 40th anniversary year.
While Coronation Street remains ever present in TV listings, the Weatherfield drama only picked up one award.
David Neilson, cafe owner Roy Cropper, was honoured with the Outstanding Achievement award in recognition of his 30 years on the programme.
The 76-year-old made his debut on the cobbles back in July 1995 as the cardigan-wearing café owner.
Roy is best known for his relationship with Hayley Patterson, played by Julie Hesmondhalgh, who joined the show in 1998.
The pair officially tied the knot in 2010 in heartwarming scenes when the law was changed to recognise their union.
Sadly, viewers saw Hayley take her own life in Roy’s arms after drinking a fatal cocktail, following a battle with terminal pancreatic cancer in 2014.
Julie was called in to present David with his Outstanding Achievement award, pulling the gong out of one of Hayley’s iconic bags.
“I am chuffed to bits to present the Outstanding Achievement Award to an outstanding actor, who also happens to be an outstanding human being…
“Playing Hayley and being able to work alongside David in that great, iconic and attitude adjusting love story was one of the great privileges of my career,” she said.
Once David took to the stage, he and Julie embraced in a hug before he became teary eyed in front of the audience.
Those watching at home raced to X, previously known as Twitter, to have their say on the moment and praise the actors for their work over the years.
@UKTVExtra said: “Perfect Reunion for a perfect Corrie Couple #Corrie #BritishSoapAwards.” @RyanSoapKing25 added: “THE ROY & HAYLEY REUNION MY HEART IS SO FULL! #BritishSoapAwards #Corrie.”
@tvreality93 wrote: “Roy and Hayley my loves when, corrie was great.” @luddshaws stated: “roy and hayley cropper you will be loved by me forever.”
@swarlasvanity commented: “roy and hayley are literally my parents im feeling so emotional rn #soapawards.” @swarlasvanity posted: “roy and hayley are literally my parents im feeling so emotional rn #soapawards.”