Coronation Street spoilers follow.
Coronation Street newcomer Jason Callender has teased that his character James Bailey is set for a romantic connection that will come as a big surprise to viewers.
James returned to Weatherfield back in March, as part of Dee-Dee’s birth storyline – with actor Jason taking over the role from Nathan Graham, who departed the role in 2022.
After Dee-Dee give birth to baby Laila, she decided that she wanted US-based James and his partner, Danny, to raise her daughter away from the cobbles.
In emotional scenes that aired this month, James waved goodbye to the Street with Laila, while Dee-Dee watched on tearfully from a distance.
Related: Best streaming services
What to Read Next
But it seems as though James hasn’t left town for good, as the character is set for an exchange that will leave fans stunned.
"James is going to have a romantic encounter," Jason exclusively told Inside Soap. "It’s someone that the audience will not see coming. When I found out, I was so excited. I was like, 'I don’t even know if we can do this!'"
On screen so far, James has mostly interacted with his close family unit – Ed, Ronnie, Michael and Dee-Dee – but the ex-Silent Witness actor has also admitted that he would love the opportunity to film with one Corrie legend in particular.
Related: Coronation Street star announces Billy Mayhew exit after 11 years
"I’d love to do a scene with Rita!" he said. "She’s an absolute legend. I see James and Rita on a cruise ship, sipping mojitos and putting the world to rights! She’s got so much life experience. Everyone needs a bit of life advice from Rita, and she would put everything in perspective for James."
For more chat from Jason on the Bailey family drama, plus his impressive telly and stage career, pick up Inside Soap – available from Tuesday 27 May.
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
Read more Coronation Street spoilers on our dedicated homepage
Digital Spy's first print magazine is here! Buy British Comedy Legends in newsagents or online, now priced at just £3.99.
