Coronation Street star Bill Roache was written out of the soap after he fell ill with coronavirus - but bosses have now confirmed his return.
The veteran Corrie actor took time away from filming when he tested positive for Covid-19, but will be back "as soon as possible", according to ITV sources.
The show said the 88-year-old, who plays Ken Barlow, has now "recovered well", The Mirror reports.
A spokesperson for ITV's Coronation Street said: “Following recent reports about his health, William Roache has asked us to clarify that he took time off work after testing positive for Covid. He has recovered well and is looking forward to returning to the cobbles as soon as possible.”
A source said that crews are “currently limiting the time we are filming with the more elderly cast during the pandemic.”
Other older stars include Barbara Knox, 86, who plays Rita, Sue Nicholls, 77, who plays Audrey, and David Neilson, 72, who plays Roy.
The source said scenes involving Bill, whose last appearance in the soap was March 10, are currently being written, and the fan favourite is said to be raring to get back on screen.
“He is doing really well and is looking forward to returning. Bill is such a well-loved member of the team and everyone is delighted he has recovered so well," they said.
"We can't wait to have him back."
Bill has been a regular on the cobbles since Coronation Street's first ever episode in 1960.
He also currently holds the title for the longest stint in any TV drama.
Bill recently insisted that retirement is "not on the radar at all", adding: "while I can do it and they want me, I will be there."
