Paddy Bever, who starred as Max Turner on Coronation Street for four years, has announced a brand new role and has been congratulated by his former co-stars16:39, 21 May 2026Updated 16:39, 21 May 2026Coronation Street star Paddy Bever has announced his new role. The actor, 23, played Max Turner on the ITV soap but bowed out at the beginning of last year after his character was sent to prison for starting a fire.‌Now, the star has revealed that he is to join the West End cast of Stranger Things: The First Shadow which is all based on the hit Netflix series that featured an A-List cast made up of Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour and Winona Ryder amongst a host of others.‌He will take on the leading role of Henry Creel, which was previously played by former Emmerdale star Louis Healy and originated by Hope Street actor Louis McCartney, and announced the news on Thursday afternoon.‌READ MORE: Coronation Street Idris' link to another character confirmed - but it's not AlyaREAD MORE: Coronation Street fans 'know' what Gary and Sarah are hiding and it's bad news for MariaHe wrote: "So excited to make my West End debut next month leading the most amazing cast. And not scared at all. [wink emoji]." The news was also shared by the official Instagram account for the show, who wrote: "Class, we have a new student coming to Hawkins High. Paddy Bever joins #STOnStage as Henry Creel from 12 June."Several of Paddy's former Coronation Street co-stars rushed to the comments section to congratulate him on the news with Jack P. Shepherd, who stars as Max's adoptive dad David Platt, writing: "So so so good." Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt said: "so buzzing for u paddy" and emblazoned her comment with a string of pink heart emojis.‌Cait Fitton, who plays Rovers Return barmaid Lauren Bolton, said: "I am so frickin proud @paddybever" whilst Toyah Battersby actress Georgia Taylor said: "Oh Paddy!! This is the most brilliant news, congratulations darling xx" Mollie Gallagher, who plays Roy Cropper's niece Nina Lucas, said: "Amazing," and former Benidorm star Tony Maudsley, who now plays undertaker George Shuttleworth on Corrie, said: "Yayyyy Paddy!!! I'm so chuffed for you. Brilliant news!!! Bravo you!! Good things come to those who wait (and work hard) xxx"Other stars to send their wellwishes included Samia Longchambon, who plays Maria Connor, Charlotte Jordan, who used to play Daisy Midgeley, and Amy Barlow actress Elle Mulvaney.‌Paddy took over the role of Max on Coronation Street from child actor Harry McDermott in 2021 and went on to win the Rising Star Award at the NTAs in 2022. After appearing in the role for four years, Paddy decided to leave and, at the time, he told us: "After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities."I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way. It’s been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show. This chapter has been unforgettable."Once his final scenes had aired, Paddy took to social media with a video message to thank fans. He said: "Hey, so if you are watching this, it means that you have also watched Max’s exit and therefore you know I am parting ways with this role and the show.Article continues below"That comes with a huge cocktail of emotions because I’ve had the most wonderful time tuned in - to everyone who loves Max, thank you. To everyone who hates Max, thank you."He added: "He’s certainly been very complex and a real privilege to play. To be part of the Platts family and be part of an amazing team for three years has been incredible. It’s been some very formative years for me and it’s a very strange feeling that it’s coming to an end. This has definitely been amongst the hardest decisions of my life as I’ve just had the most amazing time."