Coronation Street fans have rushed to support James Cartwright after the actor opened up about heartbreak he has gone through recently

James joined the ITV soap this year playing Theo Silverton, the new love interest of Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce) – and it didn’t take long for sparks to fly between the pair.However, soon enough Theo’s true self and colours came to light as Theo has been manipulating and abusing Todd for months, in a bid to control every aspect of his life. Terrified of what his partner is capable of, Todd set up hidden cameras in their home.And this month, a powerful special episode which was presented through various recording devices including Todd’s secret camera, CCTV footage, dashcam recordings, video doorbell captures and police body-worn cameras.Away from the ITV soap though, Theo actor James recently spoke about the loss of three beloved family members, and shared how he is struggling with grief this Christmas period.“Very sadly, this year, we’ve lost both our dogs,” he said, as Metro reports. James went on: “And last year we lost my grandad, who was my best friend, just before Christmas. The house will feel very empty, so to combat that, we’re going out for Christmas dinner for the first time ever.”

What’s more, it turns out showbiz runs in James’ family as his father is the successful writer and dramatist Jim Cartwright. Jim has penned an extensive amount of work over the years, most notably the 1992 play The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, which was turned into a movie in 1998 starring Jane Horrocks and Michael Caine.

Over the years, James has worked with his famous dad plenty of times. In 2009, he was cast in the West End revival of his dad’s play The Rise and Fall of Little Voice, taking on the role of Billy.