Monday, 24 November 2008

Andrew Sachs to appear on Coronation Street and Casualty

Actor’s career gets a boost after BBC radio prank scandal

Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand left crude messages about Andrew Sachs' granddaughter on his answerphone

Andrew Sachs is set to make 2 primetime TV appearances - in hit shows Coronation Street and Casualty.

The 78-year-old actor, famous for his role as Manuel on Fawlty Towers, has found himself back in the spotlight after the recent radio prank scandal in which Jonathan Ross and Russell Brand left offensive messages on his answerphone.

And it seems TV bosses are keen to capitalise on his higher profile by giving him roles in the top shows.

He is being lined up to play the brother of shopkeeper Norris Cole in Corrie.

‘They hope they can work the part of Norris’s brother into the script,' a source tells The Mirror.

'Andrew is a fantastic actor and the chemistry between him and Norris could just be fantastic.'

Andrew has already filmed his role in the Christmas episode of BBC1 hospital drama Casualty.

‘Andrew Sachs is a living legend,’ says series producer Oliver Kent. ‘When Andrew was suggested earlier in 2008, we leapt at the chance to have him in our special double Christmas episode.

‘Andrew’s performance as the ageing and kindly priest Father Morgan is very touching.’

Russell, 33, quit over the BBC scandal and Jonathan, 47, was suspended for 3 months.