Coronation Street has found the man to play Roy Cropper's long-lost brother - and Roy, played by David Neilson, will make a harrowing discovery.
As part of a new plot line for the hit soap, cafe-owner Roy finds out he has a secret half-brother, played by Paul.
Sifting through mum Sylvia's possessions after her passing, Roy learns that his mum had an affair, got pregnant, and gave the child away.
After meeting his brother though, also named Paul, the Corrie veteran will face a dark truth - that Paul is dying.
A source said: "It's a cruel twist for the much-loved character, as he was so thrilled to discover he has more family after losing his mother.
"It was particularly hard for him to deal with as he'd already had to cope with his wife, Hayley, enduring a terminal illness."
Paul's had a string of high profile roles, including Mike Bamber in The Damned United, the Brian Clough biopic starring Michael Sheen in the lead.
He also starred in this year's hit drama, A Confession, alongside acting heavyweights Martin Freeman and Imelda Staunton.
The new plot isn't the only heartache Corrie fans have been faced with recently.
This month, the show will undergo a week-long break as ITV makes way for England's Euro 2020 qualifying matches against Bulgaria and the Czech Republic.
Still, it's not all doom and gloom for the fans, as fan favourite Debbie Webster stormed back onto telly screens after a 34 year absence.
Sue Devaney's character last appeared in Weatherfield in 1985, and more longtime fans could hardly contain themselves.
One wrote: "Debbie, oh, I love, love, LOVE Sue Devaney! Welcome back to the street."
Another said: "A blast from the past!!! Welcome home Debbie Webster!!"
