Chris Gascoyne is taking an "extended break" from 'Coronation Street'.
Chris Gascoyne is stepping away from Coronation Street to explore other roles
The 55-year-old actor joined the ITV soap as Peter Barlow 23 years ago but after being involved in numerous gripping storylines he has decided to take some time away from the cobbles to try other roles.
A source told The Sun: "Chris has decided to take an extended break from the soap.
"He loves working at 'Coronation Street' but he's got a lot of things he wants to do and the time is right for him to take a break and pursue other roles."
Earlier this year, it was announced that Chris would be starring as Captain Hook in 'The All New Adventures of Peter Pan' at The Alban Arena in Saint Albans this winter.
Although Chris is moving on, 'Corrie' producers are leaving the door open for him to return as Peter in the future.
The source added: "He loves working at 'Coronation Street' but he's got a lot of things he wants to do and the time is right for him to take a break and pursue other roles.
"It isn't a final goodbye and the door is very much being left open."
Chris joined 'Coronation Street' in 2000, making his debut as part of the Barlow family - Ken Barlow's oldest son - during the 40th anniversary live episode. He is the seventh actor to have played the character.
He then left in 2003 before returning in 2008 and then, after other forays, Chris came back on a permanent basis in 2016.
Chris' final scenes as Peter, for now, will air at the end of the year.
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