Coronation Street Star, 72, Dies as Family Pays Tribute to ‘Special Gentleman’

Coronation Street Star John Saint Ryan Dies at 72

John Saint Ryan, known for his role as lorry driver Charlie Whelan on Coronation Street in the 1990s, passed away on April 3 at age 72 following a heart attack. His wife, Joyce, shared the news on Facebook, revealing he died surrounded by family and chose to donate his body to medical research, forgoing a traditional funeral. A celebration of his life will be held later.

[Image placeholder: John Saint Ryan on Coronation Street with co-star Julie Goodyear (Bet Lynch)]

A Multifaceted Career
Born in Burnley, Lancashire, in 1953, John began as a martial arts instructor before transitioning to acting. His breakout role came in 1994 on Corrie, where his character Charlie had a turbulent romance with Bet Lynch (Julie Goodyear). The storyline saw Charlie leave Weatherfield for Germany with barmaid Tanya Pooley, only to be dumped shortly after.

Beyond soaps, John appeared in films like Roar (1997) alongside Heath Ledger and TV shows such as Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Murder, She Wrote. He also starred as the antagonist in American Cyborg: Steel Warrior.

[Image placeholder: John in Roar (1997) with Heath Ledger]

Passion for Horses and Legacy
In the 1990s, John moved to California, establishing Red Rose Ranch, a cattle ranch where he trained horses and riders in dressage and Western riding. A champion in doma vaquera horsemanship, he earned global acclaim. Fans and colleagues mourned his loss online, praising his kindness and expertise. One tribute read, “He changed the way I look at horses… a sad loss to the horse world.”

[Image placeholder: John at Red Rose Ranch]

Remembered as a ‘Gentleman’
Joyce’s heartfelt Facebook post described John as a “special gentleman,” a sentiment echoed by friends and fans. Tributes flooded in, with one noting, “We are all fortunate to have known and loved him.”

John is survived by Joyce and their three sons. His legacy spans acting, horsemanship, and philanthropy, leaving a lasting impact on both industries.

[Image placeholder: Fan tributes from social media]

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(Note: The unrelated Coronation Street spoiler about the Nazir house was omitted to focus on John Saint Ryan’s obituary.)