Coronation Street star says cults destroy lives
Emrhys Cooper, the talented actor from Devon, has recently taken on the role of cult leader Rowan Cunliffe on the popular ITV soap opera Coronation Street, a character he has portrayed since March. In a recent interview, Cooper opened up about the personal significance of this role, revealing that it connects deeply with his family’s history.
Raised near Totnes, Cooper shared his family’s harrowing experience with a cult that began 22 years ago when his parents became involved with a group under the guise of wellness and fitness. “At first, it all seemed harmless,” Cooper explained. “But as they got deeper, they realized the situation was much more sinister than they had initially thought.”
Cooper mentioned that preparing for the role has been a healing journey for him and his family. “I’ve consulted with my dad as we’ve explored my character’s motives,” he noted. “It’s been beneficial to discuss the past, especially given the resentment we all felt. I never fully understood what happened, so revisiting those events has been quite cathartic.”
In his portrayal of Rowan, Cooper described the character as complex, embodying both a desire to help and a darker urge to manipulate and exploit. “He’s a nuanced character with a fun duality,” Cooper said. “On one hand, he wants to assist and heal, while on the other hand, he’s looking to take advantage of others.”
His recent experiences have also sparked a desire to raise awareness about cults, a topic often misunderstood. “There are thousands of cults operating in the UK, and they don’t always look like what we expect,” he remarked. “It’s essential to understand the reality of brainwashing and manipulation that can happen right under our noses.”
Cooper emphasized the seriousness of cult involvement, advising anyone concerned about a loved one to seek help. “This is not a joke—some who join cults never manage to escape. They can really destroy lives,” he warned.
Despite the difficulties, Cooper’s parents have expressed pride in his accomplishments. “They’ve seen the challenges I’ve faced in my career, so securing a role like this has been life-changing for me,” he shared.
As he continues his journey on Coronation Street, Cooper remains committed to shedding light on the complexities of cult dynamics and encouraging open discussions around it.
