Bill Roache is expected to return to filming on Coronation Street within weeks after successfully overcoming coronavirus.
The 88-year-old, who has played Ken Barlow on the soap since it started in 1960, has been off work for several months having tested positive for COVID-19 earlier this year.
According to The Sun, the actor - known for his healthy lifestyle and love of meditation - is now keen to get back to set as soon as possible.
"Bosses told Bill to take as long as he needed, but he is already feeling loads better," a source told the newspaper.
"He's recovered remarkably well, is itching to get back and is hoping to return to the set by the start of May.
"Anyone else might have taken a lot longer to recover but, despite his age, Bill is as fit as a fiddle.
"He's been resting up and following doctor's orders and is grateful for all the support he's had from the show. He's also had loads of cards and letters from fans.
"Bill has really missed seeing everyone but now he wants to get back to doing the job he loves."
Roache's time off from the show has meant that Ken has been largely absent from the storyline that has seen his son Peter (Chris Gascoyne) battle liver failure.
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