Corrie newcomer Junade Khan tells of 'meant to be' role he almost gave up on

Corrie newcomer Junade Khan has shared the emotional journey that led to his breakthrough role as Idris Nazir, the hunky businessman and love interest of Leanne Battersby. At 44, Junade spent eight years working as a bus driver while pursuing acting opportunities on the side. Despite landing a role in Game of Thrones, he found that it did not significantly advance his career. Faced with uncertainty, he considered quitting acting altogether.

Junade's decision to pursue acting came after a long period of balancing his passion with a stable job. He described feeling discouraged, especially after sending an email to his agent expressing his intention to quit. However, his agent encouraged him to continue, believing in his potential. This support ultimately led Junade to resign from his bus driving position in March and accept the role in Coronation Street. His transition marked a turning point, and he now plays Idris Nazir, a character who quickly becomes a focal point for several characters on the show.

Interestingly, Junade's children, Alara-Star and Pacino, have also experienced success in the entertainment industry. Alara-Star, who was just two years old when she appeared in a TV advertisement for Orange, has since become a notable figure in the industry. She has appeared in films such as The Serial Killers Wife and The Dog Stars, and is set to appear in Anxious People, directed by Angelina Jolie. Meanwhile, Pacino has made appearances in a Marvel film and the TV series Waffle the Wonder Dog. Junade expressed pride in their achievements, noting how their success coincided with his own.

Despite his newfound fame, Junade remains grounded, often engaging with his children during their roles. He humorously recounted how his children initially thought he was an actor, despite their own growing careers. Their interactions highlight the family dynamic and the unexpected nature of their shared success.

In Coronation Street, Idris Nazir is introduced as the cousin of lawyer Alya Nazir, played by Sair Khan. As an ambitious businessman, Idris quickly captures the attention of several characters, including Tracy Barlow, Mary Taylor, and Leanne Battersby. However, his character is not without complexity. Viewers will witness a more ruthless side of Idris when it is revealed that he owns properties that have caused health issues for Abi Webster’s son, Alfie, due to mold in his bedroom.

This storyline introduces a moral dilemma for Idris, who feels responsible for the situation but faces resistance from others who deny his involvement. In response, Idris takes matters into his own hands, enlisting the help of teenager Brody Michaelis to confront the person responsible for the properties. While this action demonstrates Idris's determination to protect his interests, it also reveals a darker side of his personality, highlighting his willingness to use others to achieve his goals.

Despite these complexities, Idris maintains a level of humanity, particularly in his relationship with Leanne and her stepson Sam. He offers guidance and support, showing a softer side that contrasts with his more aggressive actions. This multifaceted portrayal allows audiences to see both the strengths and flaws of Idris, making him a compelling addition to Coronation Street.

Junade's journey from bus driver to television star reflects the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry. His story serves as a testament to perseverance, belief in oneself, and the unexpected paths that can lead to success. As Idris continues to navigate the challenges of his new life on the cobbles, fans of Coronation Street can look forward to seeing how his character develops further in the coming episodes.