“Having four little babies on set will be chaotic!”

SAM ASTON Chesney Brown

He’s practically grown up on Coronation Street, but Sam Aston, who’s played Chesney since 2003, is no diva – his feet are planted firmly on those cobbles, and he’s clearly loving Weatherfield life. One of Chesney’s biggest milestones is yet to come, however, as he and Gemma prepare for the arrival of their four babies! And with this dramatic development nominated for our Best Shock Twist award, Sam and his costar Dolly-rose Campbell (Gemma) are braced – and delighted…

So, Chesney’s quads are up for our Best Shock Twist – have you got over the shock yet yourself ?

Well, it’s quite a bombshell! When I first found out I was like, “They can’t be serious!”. But now I’m looking forward to it, it’s going to be good.

For me it’s work, and the babies who’ll play the quads will go home to their parents at the end of the day. Whereas with Chesney, they’re his kids, he’ll have them all the time. And there’s the financial worry of that, the practicalities… Four kids at once has got to be tough, surely?

As one of nine brothers and sisters yourself, you might be better braced for the situation…

Well, I’ve had experience – I’m used to having kids around. But this will still be quite a change, a very different dynamic on set. But it’ll be good fun. Chaotic at times, but fun!

It sounds as though filming will need to be super-organised…

Yeah, but there’s none of that with small babies! What happens, happens, on the day. So you’ve got to deal with it as and when!

Is Chesney up to the task, do you think?

Yes. I think he’ll be the one in charge – although you never know! Gemma’s showing more signs of responsibility now.

But Chesney’s the sensible one who likes to keep things steady. This is going to rock the boat a little bit yet deep down, he still loves Gemma and is desperate to make it work. His number one goal is for his kids not to have a broken home like he had, so he’ll try his best to keep the family as tight-knit as possible.

What’s the best thing about working with Dolly-rose?

She’s absolutely bonkers, and we get on really well. We always have a good laugh on set, and she’s a good friend to have. I really enjoy our scenes together – Dolly is so good at what she does. I always have good craic with her.

Having Gemma’s mum Bernie turn up has certainly thrown the cat among the pigeons!

Well, Bernie’s similar to Chesney’s mother Cilla in a lot of ways. He’s had that a lot in his life and he’s thinking,

‘You know what, I ain’t got time for you, lady!’ Bernie’s definitely ruff ling feathers, and even Gemma’s starting to get fed up with her. But she’s a really interesting character.

What’s it been like working with Jane Hazlegrove, who plays her?

Jane is absolutely mega. And also bonkers! She and Dolly-rose are always impersonating Cilla Black in between takes – they can both do her accent really well.

You got married this year – congratulations! – what does your wife Briony make of Ches?

She’s an avid fan of Corrie, she doesn’t miss an episode. She doesn’t give me feedback, she never says anything negative – she’s a yoga instructor and is

all about positivity! She really enjoys it.

Can you still remember your first day at Corrie?

It’s a bit of a blur, but I do remember the scene. I had to finish school early that day, and I don’t know what

I was more excited about – working at Corrie or getting out of school! I think I had a contract for three months – and now we’re 16 years later! You never know how it’s going to pan out, so I feel like one of the lucky ones.

What advice would you have for your younger co-stars starting out at Corrie?

It’s simple – just enjoy it. Don’t be late, learn your lines, and make the most of it!