William Roache
William Roache will return to 'Coronation Street' in August, becoming involved in the Tina McIntyre murder storyline.
The 81-year-old actor - who hasn't been seen in the soap since last April - will reprise his role as Ken Barlow this summer just after the beautiful barmaid (Michelle Keegan) is tragically killed off by a fellow resident.
The upcoming murder is set to be a traumatic time for the Barlow family as a number of Ken's relatives - including his son Peter (Chris Gascoyne), adopted daughter Tracy (Kate Ford) and daughter-in-law Carla (Alison King) - are all high suspects in the chilling case.
An insider told The Sun newspaper: "Ken's return coincides with one of 'Corrie's biggest-ever plots and he will have to face a number of people closest to him being implicated in the murder."
William was written out of the soap last year after he was arrested and charged with four counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape against girls under 16 between 1965 and 1971.
However, the star was cleared of all charges this February and is looking forward to filming again in June.
The insider explained: "It has been a long time coming. He has had an extended break following his court case and can't wait to start filming."
William's comeback will also coincide with the return of Charles Lawson, who has agreed to reprise his role as Jim McDonald for a three-month stint.
A source said: "'Corrie' bosses are really looking forward to Charles Lawson coming back for a short amount of time -- and his character Jim will play a key role in the drama surrounding Tina's death."
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