Coronation Street’s Bill Fellows on Stu’s exit: “They wanted to leave the door open”

As I sit here, reflecting on my time as Stu Carpenter, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment and gratitude. It has been an incredible journey, one that started with a humble, wrongly-accused homeless man and culminated in a man who not only cleared his name but also amassed almost a quarter of a million pounds. The story has been fully formed, just like the character I’ve had the pleasure of bringing to life.

*Caution: The events depicted in today’s Coronation Street episode (October 14th, 2024) may reveal crucial plot points. You can watch it now on ITVX.*

Stu Carpenter, portrayed by Bill Fellows, bid farewell to the streets of Coronation Street in the most recent episode of ITV’s soap opera, as his character took an unexpected and quick leave.

Due to Yasmeen Metcalfe, Stu’s partner, asking difficult teenager Mason Radcliffe (Luca Toolan) to leave their home, Stu found himself displeased with her choice.

Yasmeen held her ground, remembering the past mistreatment she endured at the hands of her late husband Geoff (Ian Bartholomew). Later on, Stu expressed his regret if he had acted in a manner similar to her ex-husband.

Despite his lingering irritation, Stu shared that he was considering relocating to Germany since his granddaughter Eliza Woodrow (Savannah Kunyo) lived there. Her father Dom Everett (Darren Morfitt) had extended an offer for a job to him.

In summary, both Stu and Yasmeen acknowledged they no longer felt passion for their relationship. They chose to part ways, spending one final moment together at the Rovers, where Stu expressed his gratitude to Yasmeen for her support and kindness throughout their time together.

Stu was wished well by landlady Jenny Connor (Sally Ann Matthews), and it wasn’t long before he donned his hat and left Weatherfield for pastures new.

During an interview on ITV, the actor expressed his delight over his character’s storyline, as well as hinting that there could be future opportunities for Stu in the series.

Additionally, he shared about his past audition for Coronation Street and mentioned that his upcoming project promises a packed schedule. Here’s the complete conversation before we bid farewell to Stu.

What did you know about Stu before you started? And how has the character progressed?

As a film aficionado, I’ve been captivated by the character’s transformation throughout this gripping narrative. Initially, I understood him to be a man who had lost everything – homeless, falsely accused of murder, and unjustly imprisoned for 27 years. Yet, upon his release, he found himself in a precarious situation, struggling to rebuild his life. Little did I anticipate that he would soon find himself at the heart of the intriguing mystery surrounding Seb’s murder.

It’s clear that after proving his innocence, he was left in charge of his granddaughter as his daughter served time. He subsequently began a relationship with Yasmeen and integrated into the community, ultimately transforming his life. However, this progress came at a personal and familial price for him.

What was the public reaction like when he arrived?

It was extremely positive. I believe they took a liking to him. Demonstrating homelessness and how it can happen to anyone, even ordinary individuals, seemed to resonate with people. That’s why I think they admired Stu. He is an average guy with a compassionate heart, always ready to lend a helping hand, despite his circumstances.

So when you first started, how long did you think you would be here for? Did you have a plan?

Initially, it was a six-month job, but with possibilities that extended it over three years. To be honest, this duration initially caused me some concern because I own a house in the south and it felt like a long commitment. I’m accustomed to portraying various characters, so the thought of playing the same character for three years seemed prolonged.

I didn’t need to worry in the end. When I finally got the opportunity to play a role extensively, it was truly blissful. I had no obligations and those three years seemed to pass swiftly. It felt like the perfect moment to move on, and I always knew that I would leave after completing three years.

Had you ever considered doing a soap before?

Initially, I tried out for the role of Roy’s brother and Nina’s father. However, before landing that role, I was cast as Stu instead. At first, I wasn’t a good fit for the part, but it spanned three weeks – remarkably, this turned out to be fate since I landed the role and stayed on for three years! I take great pride in having been a part of Coronation Street, a show that holds a significant place in our lives, especially at my age of 67. It has been a constant presence throughout my lifetime.

Everyone in my family saw it, making the experience incredibly thrilling as I felt like I was part of something historic. Just being on set recently left me awestruck, surrounded by photos of everyone, I couldn’t help but think ‘Wow, I’m a part of this.’ Working alongside William Roache, who is genuinely kind, has been an absolute pleasure.

How do you feel now that the three years is done and you are going?

I’m completely content with my decision, as this feels like the perfect moment for both me and Stuart. I’ll cherish the past times we shared, and while I can’t predict the future, there’s a possibility I might return someday.

However, Stu has undergone significant changes. Initially, he was a homeless man falsely accused of murder. Fast forward three years, this individual has amassed nearly a quarter of a million pounds, cleared his name, and built a new life for himself. I’m extremely satisfied with the narrative as it has developed into a well-rounded storyline.

How do you feel about your departure storyline and his relationship with Mason?

It brought me joy to revisit the initial tale of character Stu and his background. His journey began by aiding Kelly, portrayed by Millie Gibson, which I found fascinating and enjoyed being part of, especially collaborating with Millie.

Currently, he’s extending a hand of assistance to an individual whom he thinks deserves another opportunity. This brings us back to where we started. He strongly advocates for the idea that everyone deserves a chance at redemption; he wouldn’t dismiss someone based on their past incarceration.

Why does he end up feeling he needs to leave Weatherfield?

“This time, Stu’s behaviors are impacting those nearby him. He wasn’t initially aware of Dylan’s predicament, but when he discovered it, he perceived something in this young man that resonated with him and felt compelled to guide him towards a positive change. On the other hand, Mason’s actions and his family have put Yasmeen in jeopardy. A stone was hurled through her window, and she demands Mason leaves her home.

“Stu is angry with Yasmeen and he falls a little bit out of love with her for giving up on Mason. He decides that he should go and live with his granddaughter in Germany. He knows that their relationship has been put through too much of a test. It is a sad decision but they both know it is the right one. As much as Stu wants to help people it can’t be at the cost of other people. You can see them both struggling because they don’t really want to say goodbye.”

Are you happy Stu wasn’t killed off?

Regardless of the outcome, I had expressed my feelings to the producer earlier. It’s comforting to know that Stuart is out there assisting others. They mentioned keeping the possibility open, which is thoughtful.

What have you got planned now you have finished?

Over the next few months, I’m quite fortunate as I have a packed schedule ahead. I’ll be involved in several episodes of a BBC sitcom titled Smoggie Queens, which is set in Middlesbrough and stars Mark Benton. Following that, I’ll collaborate with Mark again, this time on a film, along with Stephen Tompkinson. The movie centers around low-level gangsters in Middlesbrough.

It’s quite amusing, really: I’m venturing northward for work, but interestingly enough, the North East is even more distant from my home down south than Corrie! However, it’s my hometown and I have many connections there, so I’m genuinely excited about this move.

A vampire movie is being planned, and it seems intriguing. I’m eager to take on diverse projects while also exploring different places. Despite my relaxed demeanor, I’m really looking forward to what the future holds.

Will you be taking anything of Stu’s with you?

“I’m keeping Stu’s hat, something he had since the start – for me, it embodies his character better than anything else. I value experiences over objects. Over these past three years, I’ve amassed countless wonderful photos and unforgettable memories.

Visit our dedicated Coronation Street page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers.

2024-10-14 15:34

Read More