After an astonishing 34 years gracing the cobbles of Coronation Street, one of the show’s most beloved and enduring stars has opened up about a deeply personal and rarely discussed struggle—imposter syndrome. In a candid and emotional interview, the veteran actor revealed that despite decades of success, awards, and fan admiration, they’ve often felt like they didn’t truly belong on screen, constantly fearing they weren’t “good enough” to deserve their place in the cast of Britain’s most iconic soap.
The legendary star—widely reported to be David Neilson, known for his portrayal of Roy Cropper—admitted that throughout his career, he has carried a persistent sense of self-doubt that often overshadowed even his greatest professional achievements. “You stand on that set, saying your lines, and somewhere in the back of your mind a voice says, ‘They’re going to find out you don’t deserve to be here,’” he shared. “I’ve felt that way since day one, and strangely, even now.”
Neilson, whose portrayal of Roy has been central to some of Coronation Street’s most powerful storylines—from his complex relationship with Hayley to his quiet strength as a moral compass of the Street—said the feelings of inadequacy never truly disappeared, even as his character became a fan favorite and cultural icon. “People would stop me in the street and say how much Roy meant to them, and I’d smile and thank them—but in my head, I’d think, ‘If only they knew.’”
Imposter syndrome, a psychological pattern where individuals doubt their accomplishments and fear being exposed as a “fraud,” is often associated with high achievers and creatives. Neilson’s revelation sheds light on the emotional toll fame and public expectation can take, even on the most seasoned performers. “You’d think after so long, the nerves would stop. But before every scene, I still get that flutter of panic—what if today’s the day it all falls apart?”
The veteran actor’s honesty has sparked an outpouring of support from fans and colleagues alike. Cast members have praised his vulnerability, calling him “brave,” “genuine,” and “the heart of Corrie.” Long-time co-star Sue Nicholls (Audrey Roberts) commented, “It’s incredible that someone as talented and kind as David could feel that way. It just shows how quietly people can suffer.”
Neilson reflected that part of his struggle stemmed from his unconventional path into acting. “I didn’t go to one of the top drama schools. I was a bus driver, a barman, all sorts of things before I found my way to acting. I always felt like I was one lucky break away from being found out.” Despite building a career marked by emotional depth and understated brilliance, he admitted that those early doubts never quite left.
Interestingly, Neilson credited the character of Roy Cropper as both a source of healing and conflict. “Roy gave me purpose. He allowed me to speak through him in ways I could never do as myself. But he also became this sort of armor, and sometimes I’d wonder—if people really saw me, not Roy, would they still care?” That duality, he says, is something he’s only recently begun to fully accept.
The interview has sparked broader discussions within the acting community, with many performers echoing similar feelings of self-doubt and insecurity. Industry veterans have pointed out that while actors are trained to inhabit characters, they rarely receive the same support when it comes to managing the mental and emotional weight that fame can bring. Neilson’s openness may be a turning point in changing how the industry talks about mental health.
Fans, meanwhile, have flooded social media with messages of gratitude and encouragement. “Roy Cropper taught me how to be kind and stand for what’s right,” one fan wrote. “Hearing that David feels insecure just makes me love him more—because it shows how real he is.” Another added, “Imposter syndrome doesn’t stand a chance against someone who’s made that big of an impact.”
Despite his personal struggles, Neilson made it clear that he’s deeply grateful for the life Coronation Street has given him. “This show has been my home for over three decades. I’ve grown up here in a way. I’ve seen cast members come and go, storylines rise and fall, and somehow—through it all—I stayed. Maybe it’s time I believed I deserve to be here, too.”
He also offered words of encouragement for anyone experiencing similar feelings. “You’re not alone. It doesn’t matter how long you’ve been doing something, or how much praise you’ve received—doubt can still creep in. But the trick is to keep showing up. Keep going. And every so often, remind yourself that you belong.”
As Coronation Street continues to evolve, bringing in new characters and bold plotlines, figures like David Neilson remain a grounding force—a reminder that authenticity, vulnerability, and quiet strength are what truly make a legend. His confession doesn’t diminish his legacy; it deepens it. And for many viewers, the man behind Roy Cropper has just become even more inspiring.
