Jack P. Shepherd has defended the decision to recast Todd Grimshaw in 'Coronation Street'.
Jack P. Shepherd
The character was originally played by Bruno Langley, but he's now set to be played by Gareth Pierce - and Jack has come out in support of the recasting.
After a photograph of Gareth was posted on the soap's official Instagram page, one social media user wrote: "Do you think his mum will notice that he's had a face transplant?"
Another user commented: "'Coronation Street' never even try to hire their recasts to look anything like the original actor. Can't see this working."
But in response, Jack - who plays David Platt in the soap - wrote: "In my experience, that never works, you end up casting someone with same colour hair/eyes same teeth etc over acting capability, and the best actor/actress for the role misses out. (sic)"
Meanwhile, Gareth has admitted he's looking forward to his new role in 'Coronation Street', saying he has "some really exciting storylines" to look forward to.
The actor - whose character will be seen back on the cobbles in the autumn - said: "I'm thrilled to be joining such an iconic show, and to have been entrusted with taking Todd forward into some really exciting storylines.
"It's an honour to be part of the dedicated Coronation Street team in such unprecedented times."
The character originally left the long-running soap after he assaulted a police officer and was said to have "gone on the run".