Matt Owens was a behind-the-scenes hero on Coronation Street, supporting cast and crew during high-risk stunts—from the iconic 2013 Rovers Return fire to the intense Halloween blaze at the Platt house. As a trained firefighter and safety specialist at Rapid Fire Cover, he had built lasting bonds on set.

When news of his untimely death at just 38 years old, the show’s community was rocked. Antony Cotton—Sean Tully—stepped up as one of the first public figures to pay tribute, sharing poignant memories of Matt’s warmth, generosity, and reliability. According to Cotton, their professional relationship began in 2013, and their friendship continued for over a decade. At the funeral, Cotton spoke of Matt as someone who would “literally do anything for anyone,” and how deeply the loss had affected those who knew him personally and professionally NationalWorld.

Behind the scenes, Coronation Street is lauded not just for its stars, but also the unsung professionals who keep the show safe and seamless. Crew members like Matt are often unseen, but their impact resonates deeply. Colleagues describe him as “quiet and humble,” always ready with a joke—someone who made dangerous work feel safer and more secure Reddit+1Reddit+1.

The funeral on July 22, 2025, was attended by many from both Corrie and Emmerdale teams. Cotton’s emotional tribute was shared on social media, displaying the service order and expressing heartfelt loss: “I still can’t quite get my head round it… you are at rest now, no more worries, Matty Boy.” His words captured the mixture of grief and disbelief felt across the set and beyond NationalWorld.

Within Coronation Street, Matt had been involved with major stunt sequences, including the memorable 2013 Rover’s Return blaze and other high-profile fire effects. His expertise not only ensured safety but also helped elevate the realism and intensity of those scenes. Colleagues—including Val Lawson, a First Assistant Director at ITV—hailed Matt’s professionalism and friendship, describing the news as “devastating” and praising his ability to consistently bring integrity to high-pressure set environments NationalWorld.

Although not an on-screen character, Matt’s passing sends a strong reminder: every person—visible or unseen—is integral to the storytelling magic of Coronation Street.

Among fans, reactions were swift and heartfelt. Many praised his dedication to keeping cast and crew safe, while others honored his kindness and character. Viewers and colleagues alike expressed that his role was vital—even if largely behind the camera—and that his absence leaves a silent but impactful void.

For Antony Cotton, whose character Sean Tully often wrestles with themes of community and belonging, this personal loss underscores the real connections forged off-screen. His grief was not just for a colleague, but for a friend whose work meant something beyond the technical—a human presence, a steadying force, even in moments of fictional chaos.

While Coronation Street continues with its storylines—featuring emotional arcs, dramatic entrances and exits, and unfolding dramas—there’s no stunt more meaningful than ensuring safety. And the grief felt today reflects that importance.

Matt Owens may no longer be part of the physical set, but the legacy he leaves behind—compassion, calm under pressure, and friendship—will continue to influence Coronation Street’s atmosphere. As the cast and crew carry on, it’s his memory that reminds them that real lives are at the heart of everything that appears on screen.

🕯️ In Summary

• Matt Owens, aged 38, a firefighter and stunt safety crew member on Coronation Street, passed away on July 7, 2025 Reddit+15NationalWorld+15Reddit+15.

• Antony Cotton led the tributes, attending the funeral on July 22, 2025, and described Matt as a kind, dependable friend and valued crew member NationalWorld.

• Matt’s work spanned major stunt sequences, playing a crucial role behind the scenes in ensuring both safety and realism.

• His death has profoundly affected both cast and crew, reminding everyone of the vital contributions of people who don’t always appear in the credits—but whose presence shapes every scene.