William Roache, holder of the Guinness World Record for the longest-running television star, has no plans to hang up his hat anytime soon. The iconic Coronation Street actor, who has portrayed the role of Ken Barlow since 1960, recently signed a contract to appear on the soap for another year.
In a repeat episode of "Love Your Weekend" that aired on Monday, Roache confirmed his intention to keep going, telling presenter Alan Titchmarsh: "Still going strong, and hope to make the centenarian. That would be great."
When Titchmarsh asked about the secret to his longevity, Roache shared his simple philosophy: "The secret is to enjoy yourself."
The 92-year-old actor, who recently celebrated his birthday in April, also discussed his positive outlook on ageing. "There's a collective consciousness about ageing, a lot of it is a belief system," he explained. "When you're 60, you know, 'Oh sit down, take it easy, aren't you retiring yet?' and all those things. No! Keep going! I'm doing a parachute jump in a few weeks' time. You just do whatever you want to do, as long as you enjoy it, that's the main thing."
Titchmarsh chimed in: "If you don't use it, you lose it," to which Roache readily agreed: "Yes, absolutely."
Roache has consistently expressed his desire to continue acting, even as he entered his tenth decade in 2022. He previously stated during a special birthday show: "People will say, 'When are you retiring?' But then what happens? Whilst I can do it, and whilst they will have me, I have no intention of retiring. I am so fortunate to work for an organisation that is happy to have me. For me, itâs really just the same as ever. Getting on with it, steady as you go. If you enjoy doing something, keep doing it."
With his infectious enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to his craft, William Roache continues to inspire both on and off screen, proving that age is just a number and that the secret to a long and fulfilling life is simply to embrace each day with joy.
