Coronation Street has recast the character of Aadi Alahan after the actor playing him left the show to focus on his A-levels.
Zennon Ditchett has portrayed Aadi – the son of Dev Alahan – since 2009 and left at the end of last year to concentrate on school work.
Aadi will now be played by Manchester actor Adam Hussain, Corrie producers said.
His first appearance will be on April 15 alongside Tanisha Gorey, who plays his twin Asha.
Hussain joins the show as the Alahan twins find themselves at the centre of a new storyline exploring the “devastating harm” caused by sexting.
Having rekindled her relationship with Corey, Asha sends him intimate footage only for it to end up online.
Aadi steps in to protect his sister but is powerless to stop the fallout.
Hussain, who has previously had roles in The Bay and Fertile Crescent, said: “I am excited to play the role of Aadi, putting my own twist on him as the character becomes involved in an important new storyline.
“I was already good friends with Tanisha Gorey, before coming to the street, which helps hugely with portraying the bond of brother and sister.
“Everyone at Coronation Street has been so welcoming, bringing me in to their family and treating me as one of their own. I have always associated Coronation Street with family and togetherness which is so important at this time.
“Having already filmed the start of this story before we had to stop production I look forward to returning as part of the amazing team who bring entertainment and joy to the screens of viewers across the nation.”
Coronation Street continues on ITV.
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