Jimi Mistry has shed over a stone in weight before taking on his new role in 'Coronation Street'.
The 40-year-old actor has joined the soap as personal trainer Kal and says he felt "conscious" of having to look the part, so ensured that before filming began he was in good physical shape.
He said: "I was conscious I had to look the part. I've always liked the gym and I put myself through the paces and lost 14 to 16lbs.
"I wasn't 'fat' fat but I've certainly trimmed. There was a lot of circuit training and I've also cut out the enjoyable things during the week, like floury carbs."
Jimi says his character is "charming and inspiring", but also suggested there is more to him than meets the eye.
He added in an interview with Britain's OK! magazine: "They wanted a strong male character to come in. My character, Kal, is charming and inspiring, but there's definitely another side to him."
Though Jimi has only just started work on the show, he is having a great time.
He said: "The last month off filming has been amazing. I've had a great time.
"Gary Windass (Mikey North) brings me in as a character, we have a history. But the majority of my scenes so far have been with Dev (Jimmi Harkishin) and Nick (Ben Price).
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