Coronation Street Tracy Barlow actress Kate Ford has been in a few real-life relationships, including with one of her soap co-stars.
Coronation Street viewers have been stunned after discovering Kate Ford, who portrays Tracy Barlow, once had a romance with a fellow actor.
Kate rose to prominence when she joined the ITV soap’s cast as Tracy in 2002, stepping into the role previously held by actress Dawn Acton, who portrayed Tracy from 1988 to 1999.
It’s safe to say Tracy has since evolved into one of the programme’s most memorable characters. She’s also featured in numerous major plot lines throughout the years.
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From surprising affairs and disputes to even homicide, Tracy’s stint in Weatherfield has been anything but quiet, reports the Daily Star. This is particularly evident at present, as she’s currently embroiled in a complicated divorce from Steve McDonald (Simon Gregson).
Beyond the soap, however, Tracy actress Kate Ford’s romantic history hasn’t been as turbulent as her character’s. She once had a relationship with fellow performer Bart Ruspoli, whom she encountered on the EastEnders set in 2000 whilst they were both employed there.
Kate and Bart’s romance was brief though, and their relationship eventually petered out. Besides performing, Bart also works as a writer and producer.
As a performer, he has appeared in numerous television programmes, including Band of Brothers, EastEnders and Heartbeat. Furthermore, supporters have expressed their amazement at Kate and Bart’s former relationship.
Responding to a post regarding her romantic history on a Facebook page, one individual commented; “I recognise her first boyfriend Bart.” Another added: “Same here.” A third also remarked: “Didn’t know they dated.”
In 2022, Bart’s current wife took to social media to share a nostalgic photo from 1997 featuring Bart and Kate.
Soap actress Kate reposted the throwback image on her own social media, writing: “I love this! ! When your ex’s wife posts a celebratory photo of you and her husband (I love them both) from 1997 you realise how life can (sometimes) come full circle in gorgeous ways you at one point, couldn’t imagine xx.”
Following her split with Bart, Kate began a relationship with television producer Jon Connerty. The couple tied the knot in 2007 and welcomed their son Otis James in 2008.
However, by 2013, their marriage had ended in divorce. During this time, Ford spoke about the emotional impact of the separation, telling the Sun: “We really tried hard to make it work. But it came to the point when we knew we had to get a divorce. Things had changed and it wasn’t what it was. But it was incredibly painful. For a while after we split, I found it hard to get out of bed.”
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX
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