Andy Whyment, who has portrayed Kirk Sutherland on Coronation Street since 2000, recently hosted his daughter, Hollie, for a behind-the-scenes work experience tour at the ITV soap’s Manchester studios. The actor documented the visit on TikTok, providing fans with a look at the production’s wardrobe, makeup departments, and set locations.
Inside the Coronation Street Set Tour
During the visit, Whyment guided his daughter through various locations, including the familiar exterior of Coronation Street and the Weatherfield General Hospital set. The tour extended into the technical areas of the production, where Hollie visited the wardrobe department and the hair and makeup rooms. Whyment also showcased his own dressing room, offering a glimpse into the daily routine of a cast member.
The pair engaged in lighthearted improvisation on set. At the Underworld factory, where the character Kirk Sutherland works, Hollie took a seat at Carla Connor’s desk to pretend to answer phones. She later stepped into a role-play scenario at Roy’s Cafe, acting as a server while her father played the customer. Whyment noted that the visit included the opportunity for his daughter to watch a scene be shot, an experience he described as a way to show her how a “great team of people” brings the show together.
Did you know?
The Coronation Street production team maintains a display case on set featuring props from historical storylines. During his tour, Whyment showed his daughter various items, including the knife used by Anna Windass against Pat Phelan in 2018 and the hole punch used by serial killer Stephen Reid to attack Teddy Thompkins in 2023.
The Evolution of Behind-the-Scenes Content
Whyment’s decision to share these moments on TikTok provides a “whistlestop tour” of the sets, including adjacent locations like Kirk’s flat and Roy’s Cafe. Fans have responded to these clips by occasionally advocating for new narrative directions for his character.
Coronation Street continues to air on weeknights at 8:30 p.m. on ITV1, with episodes available for streaming on ITVX.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long has Andy Whyment played Kirk Sutherland?
Andy Whyment has played the role of Kirk Sutherland on Coronation Street since 2000.
Can fans visit the Coronation Street set?
The production allows behind-the-scenes access for work experience, as seen with Whyment’s recent tour.
Where can I watch Coronation Street?
The show airs on weeknights at 8:30 p.m. on ITV1 and is available to stream on ITVX.
Follow the official social media accounts of soap actors to catch behind-the-scenes glimpses of set life that aren’t typically featured in broadcast episodes.
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