Brian McFadden says he was offered Coronation Street role - but turned it down

The former Westlife singer said his busy schedule forced him to turn down the offer
Turned down: Brian McFadden
Anthony Harvey/Getty
16 October 2015
The Weekender

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Former Westlife singer Brian McFadden has revealed that he was approached for a role in Coronation Street – but turned it down.

Despite no acting experience viewers could have seen McFadden, 35, propping up the bar in The Rovers or boxing up knickers in Carla’s factory for the role of Aidan Connor.

But McFadden turned down the role due to a busy schedule and it was later given to former X Factor contestant Shayne Ward.

“I did actually get asked to go and have a meeting with Coronation Street about doing a role in it but time wouldn't let it because I was doing Who's Doing The Dishes and I had an album coming out," he told The Sun.

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"I couldn't live in Manchester for nine months or whatever it was. I just told them I didn't have the time.

"I think Shayne Ward got the job."

Ward received a positive reception from fans when he made his debut on the cobbles earlier this year.

One viewer hailed his arrival as the “best” decision - while others joked he made such a big effort to fit in that he colour co-ordinated his shirt with the wallpaper in Carla's office.

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