Sam Aston, best known for his role as Chesney Brown on Coronation Street, has revealed some behind-the-scenes details from the cobbles that have left fans in stitches.

In a candid conversation on the Off Script podcast, hosted by former Emmerdale star Kelvin Fletcher and his wife Liz, Aston opened up about the challenges he faces

while filming with his veteran co-star, David Neilson, who portrays the beloved Roy Cropper. While fans have grown accustomed to Roy’s serious demeanor and profound wisdom,

Aston let slip that his off-screen counterpart couldn’t be more different.

A Stark Contrast: Neilson’s Dry Wit and Daft Antics

Neilson, who has portrayed Roy Cropper since 1995, is a staple of Coronation Street. His character is known for his deadpan delivery and logical approach to life’s toughest situations. However, according to Aston, Neilson’s real-life personality is a far cry from his onscreen counterpart, with Aston revealing a side of Neilson that fans rarely see.

“He’s great, he’s really funny because he’s so different to Roy,” Aston admitted, “He’s very dry, and his humor is completely unexpected. It’s just one of those things where it’s hard to do a scene with him sometimes because he’ll do something really daft right after a serious shot, and you’re just trying to keep a straight face.”

Aston’s laughter-filled confession paints a picture of Neilson as a prankster, someone who brings an element of surprise to every scene they film together. Despite the serious and emotional moments the two characters share on-screen, it’s clear that the off-screen dynamic is filled with lighthearted antics and humor, making their scenes even more memorable.

This playful side of Neilson adds a layer of authenticity to his portrayal of Roy, a character known for being a bit awkward yet endearing. It’s a reminder to fans that even the most serious roles can be lightened by the unexpected and unscripted moments of fun that actors bring to their performances. Aston’s reflections on Neilson highlight the strong bond between the two actors, making their on-screen relationship all the more genuine.

The Parent Figures: Roy and Hayley’s Impact on Chesney’s Life

Aston went on to talk about the deep connection between his character, Chesney, and Roy, which has evolved over the years. For those who have followed Coronation Street from its early days, it’s well-known that Roy and his late wife Hayley (played by Julie Hesmondhalgh) have served as parental figures to Chesney, especially during his troubled teenage years.

“Roy and obviously Hayley, they were kind of the parent figures to Chesney when he was having a real rough time at home,” Aston reflected. “Roy took me to karate lessons, we did all sorts, it was brilliant.”

This unexpected mentorship from Roy and Hayley was a crucial part of Chesney’s storyline, and their guidance helped shape the character into the man fans see today. Their warmth and support, even in the face of Hayley’s tragic death, are central to the emotional depth of the Coronation Street narrative. For Chesney, Roy and Hayley represented a safe space and stability during a turbulent time in his life, providing him with a much-needed anchor.

The dynamic between Roy and Chesney is a testament to Coronation Street‘s long-standing tradition of creating complex and relatable family relationships. The relationship between Chesney and Roy is one of the most cherished on the soap, showcasing the beauty of found family and the strength that can come from unlikely connections.

Drama Unfolds: Chesney and Roy Navigate Their Personal Lives

Recently, Coronation Street fans have been on the edge of their seats as Chesney and Roy have been embroiled in some intense and dramatic storylines. Chesney’s life has taken a darker turn, particularly in his relationship with his wife, Gemma Winter-Brown. In a shocking twist, Chesney has learned that their new neighbor, Mick Michaelis, has been threatening Gemma. This new threat to his family’s safety has left Chesney deeply concerned, as he struggles to protect his loved ones from harm.

Meanwhile, Roy has also been dealing with some heavy drama. In a gripping storyline that kept viewers hooked, Roy was falsely accused of the murder of Lauren Bolton, a crime he didn’t commit. After being cleared of all charges, Roy’s life seemed to calm down. However, his path took another unexpected turn when he became a father figure to the troubled Lauren, offering support and guidance to the young woman despite her complicated past.

These intertwined storylines have placed both Chesney and Roy in the heart of Coronation Street’s ongoing drama. Their personal lives are constantly evolving, and each new twist keeps fans guessing about what’s next for these beloved characters.

A New Generation of Mentorship

The latest chapter in Roy and Chesney’s relationship sees them both stepping into roles of mentors once again, albeit in very different circumstances. While Roy finds himself offering guidance to a troubled Lauren, Chesney’s protective nature has come to the forefront as he defends his family from external threats. The complexity of their characters has only grown, as they continue to be pillars of support for those around them.

In many ways, Roy’s mentorship of Chesney, and now Lauren, reflects the enduring theme of Coronation Street—the importance of community and support in the face of adversity. Whether it’s Chesney’s determination to keep his family safe or Roy’s role as a moral compass for others, both characters demonstrate the power of kindness and understanding, even when life seems chaotic.

Behind the Camera: Aston’s Thoughts on Working with Neilson

As fans continue to watch the dramatic evolution of Chesney and Roy’s relationship on screen, Aston’s candid remarks about working with Neilson give us a glimpse into the camaraderie and respect shared by the two actors. It’s clear that their bond off-screen only enhances their on-screen chemistry, making their portrayals of Chesney and Roy even more impactful.

Aston’s admiration for Neilson is evident as he describes his co-star’s dry humor and wit, as well as his ability to inject lightheartedness into even the most intense scenes. The fun they have off-screen translates into their performances, ensuring that Coronation Street remains as entertaining as ever for its dedicated viewers.