Coronation Street fans had 'no idea' after hearing Todd Grimshaw star's real voice
April 16, 2026
Coronation Street star Gareth Pierce has left fans 'floored' after discovering his real accent for the first time
Viewers of the long-running soap opera Coronation Street have been taken by surprise after hearing the real voice of actor Gareth Pierce, who portrays the character Todd Grimshaw. For years, audiences have grown accustomed to the Mancunian accent Pierce employs for his role on the Manchester-based show. However, recent off-screen appearances have revealed the actor’s authentic Welsh accent, leaving many fans astounded. The discovery has sparked a wave of commentary online, with many viewers expressing their shock and admiration for his acting abilities.
Gareth Pierce, who hails from Gwynedd in Wales, took over the role of Todd Grimshaw in 2020. He stepped into the shoes of Bruno Langley, who had played the character since 2001. Since his debut, Pierce has become a familiar face on the cobbles, navigating his character through a series of dramatic storylines. The surprise for many fans came from social media clips and interviews where Pierce spoke in his native Welsh lilt. One such instance was a video posted to his Instagram account where he wished the Welsh women's football team good luck, speaking partly in Welsh. Another moment that caught fans off guard was an interview at the National Television Awards which he conducted entirely in Welsh.
The reaction from the public has been one of genuine disbelief and praise. Comments such as "Mind blown!" and "Did not know he was Welsh" flooded social media platforms following the revelations. Many viewers commended the actor for the convincing accent he maintains on the show, with some noting they had no idea he wasn't a native of Manchester. The contrast between Todd Grimshaw's well-known voice and Pierce's own has highlighted the actor's versatility and skill in his craft.
The character of Todd Grimshaw has a long and complex history on Coronation Street, first appearing in 2001. He was the show's first openly gay character, a groundbreaking storyline at the time. Over the years, Todd has been portrayed as a multifaceted character, veering between being a villain and a more sympathetic figure. Pierce’s portrayal began in October 2020, following the departure of the original actor. Since taking over, Pierce has steered Todd through significant challenges, including a recent and harrowing domestic abuse storyline involving his partner Theo Silverton.
The revelation of Pierce's true accent serves as a reminder of the transformative work actors undertake for their roles. While his character Todd continues to be a central figure in the drama unfolding on the streets of Weatherfield, fans now have a new appreciation for the Welsh actor who brings him to life. This unexpected discovery has not only provided a talking point for viewers but has also underscored the talent required to maintain a consistent and believable character persona in the demanding world of soap operas.
Source: dailystar