Samia Longchambon, a cast member of Coronation Street, posted a heartfelt tribute to her co-star on social media.
Coronation Street favourite Samia Longchambon, famed for her portrayal of Maria Windass, has taken to Instagram with a touching tribute to her fellow ITV soap star Alan Halsall on his birthday. The actress, who has been gracing the Cobbles since 2000, is known for her tight-knit relationships with her co-stars and didn’t miss the chance to celebrate Alan’s special day.
Alan, beloved by fans as Tyrone Dobbs, is basking in birthday joy as he turned 42 on August 11. Samia joined a host of Corrie actors extending their well-wishes on social media.
She posted a cheerful photo with Alan and Andy Whyment, captioning it: “Happy birthday to the one and only Alan Halsall. Have a mega day… love ya.”
The birthday boy himself is marking the occasion with a family barbecue at his impressive residence. Among the heartfelt messages from cast members was one from Bella Flanagan, who plays his on-screen daughter Hope Dobbs.
Her endearing message read: “Couldn’t ask for a better TV dad and I know I do your head in but I really do love you. Have a fab day! ! xx” Alan expressed his gratitude for the sweet sentiment, replying: “I’m the lucky one.”, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Claire Sweeney, who stars as his on-screen mother Cassandra Plummer, also chimed in with a warm greeting: “Happy birthday to my darling boy.”
Alan has shared with the ECHO and other media outlets how fantastic it has been working closely with the ex-Brookside actress.
He shared: “It can be a challenging transition joining Coronation Street and, obviously, everyone recognises Claire from her previous roles. She’s a joy to work with and she’s integrated seamlessly.”
Currently, Claire is basking in the glow of a new romance with Ricky Hatton, following their stint on the recent season of Dancing On Ice. Alan, who is good friends with the boxing champ, disclosed that he sent him a Father’s Day message.
He revealed: “I did text Ricky Hatton saying Happy Father’s Day. Love you, Dad.”
When asked if he received a reply, Alan told the ECHO and other press: “Of course he did. ‘Pint of Guinness soon, son’.”
On screen, there are hints that Claire’s character might become Steve McDonald’s love interest. Alan, who is also tight with Steve McDonald actor, Simon Gregson, joked that this plot twist could lead him to consider leaving his iconic role.
He commented: “We have a fantastic rapport and we constantly tease each other, but having to call Steve McDonald ‘dad’ could be a real deal breaker.”
He chuckled as he added: “I feel a bit queasy now.”
