Will Mellor, the actor renowned for his role as Harvey Gaskell in the popular soap opera Coronation Street, recently opened up about his career aspirations and the fears that accompany his profession during an appearance on ITV's James Martin's Saturday Morning on March 29, 2025. Joining him was fellow actor Ralf Little, known for his work in The Royle Family. The duo, who previously starred together in the BBC sitcom Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps, have embarked on a new venture: a live podcast tour across the UK.
During their engaging conversation with chef and host James Martin, the pair shared insights about their podcast, which they describe on social media as "just two guys having a couple of pints and a chat in a pub." This informal approach seems to resonate with their audience, making their live shows highly anticipated events.
Originating from Greater Manchester, Mellor reflected on his childhood as the youngest of five siblings and his longstanding ambition to act. "It was always something I dreamt of doing for as long as I remember. I always wanted to be a performer," he recalled. His journey into acting began when an agency opened its doors to aspiring performers from diverse backgrounds. "They liked what I did and I got in," he explained, reminiscing about how that opportunity shaped his career.
Mellor first gained public attention in 1990 as Ben Rowlingson on Children's Ward and later became widely recognized for his role as James "Jambo" Bolton in Hollyoaks. Over the years, he has appeared in various hit dramas, including EastEnders and Broadchurch. Most notably, in 2024, he portrayed Lee Castleton in ITV's Mr Bates vs The Post Office, a role that brought light to the controversial British Post Office scandal, where he has become an advocate for justice for those affected.
Despite his significant accomplishments in the entertainment industry, Mellor admitted that the unpredictable nature of acting can be daunting. In his candid discussion with Martin, he shared, "What I love about my job is something that terrifies me - the uncertainty of it. You never know what tomorrow is going to bring, you never know what the next job is going to be." This honesty about the industry's volatility adds a relatable layer to his public persona.
As Mellor and Little gear up for their live shows, the excitement is palpable. Little expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Going out on tour again is very exciting. We had such a blast last time, can't wait to meet everyone again and see all your lovely faces." Mellor echoed this sentiment, saying, "I loved the buzz of being on tour last time so can't wait to have loads of banter with everyone again." Their shared eagerness hints at the chemistry and camaraderie that audiences can expect during their performances.
James Martin's Saturday Morning airs on ITV1 every Saturday at 9:30 AM and is also available for streaming on ITVX. The show continues to be a platform for various guests to share their stories, and Mellor's appearance has certainly added to its appeal.
With a career spanning over three decades, Will Mellor remains a significant figure in British television. His journey from a young boy with dreams of performing to a seasoned actor advocating for justice reflects not only his talent but also his commitment to using his platform for positive change. As he and Ralf Little embark on their podcast tour, fans can look forward to more engaging conversations and entertaining performances from this dynamic duo.
