Five Fast Facts About British Soap Star David Neilson

David Neilson is a British actor who is best known for playing Roy Cropper in Coronation Street for nearly 25 years.

Along with his work on the British soap, Neilson has also appeared in shows such as Z-Cars, Young at Heart, Survivors, Sons and Lovers, and Blue Heaven. From where he was born and raised to writing his own play, here are five fast facts about the actor.

Who Is David Neilson?

He was born on March 13 in Loughborough, Leicestershire, where he was also raised. Neilson attended Garendon Secondary Modern School, but left when he was 15, and then went on to study at the Central School of Speech and Drama.

Hitting The Pavement
Prior to establishing his career as an actor, Neilson took on a number of odd jobs to help pay the bills. He was previously a gas station attendant, a plumber, an ice-cream salesman, and a bartender. Once he started acting, Neilson continued to find work as a theater director or an acting teacher.

Soap Career
Neilson was interviewed about playing the role of Roy Cropper on Coronation Street after he was recommended for the part by writer, Stephen Mallatratt. He was cast in 1995 and has been on the show ever since. He has also won the Best Actor Award at the British Soap Awards.

The Play’s The Thing

Along with being an actor, Neilson is also a playwright. He penned a play called Robin Hood The Truth Behind the Green Tights, which has been performed on the stage in the past. The play is available to buy in book form.

Getting Personal With David Neilson
He is married to Jane Neilson, and the couple has a son named Daniel. Neilson is also a life-long Leicester City fan.