Former Coronation Street actor, Matthew Marsden, known for his role as mechanic Chris Collins, has transitioned into a right-wing influencer. Marsden, now residing in the US, uses social media to express his controversial opinions on topics like immigration, climate change, and liberal ideologies. He claims to have faced industry backlash for his outspoken views, including skepticism towards Covid measures and vaccines.
With a sizable online following of 192,000 on X and over 17,000 subscribers on YouTube, Marsden actively engages with content from figures like Tommy Robinson. His online presence has evolved to include videos with provocative titles such as “How immigration is destroying the UK” and “The UK’s cultural collapse: what’s really happening?”
Critics, including Hope Not Hate and Green Party MP Hannah Spencer, have pointed out the extreme nature of Marsden’s views, contrasting them with his previous on-screen persona. Marsden’s character on Coronation Street, which earned him accolades and popularity, was a womanizing ex-soldier turned mechanic who left the show in 1998 after a successful run.
Beyond his soap opera days, Marsden pursued a music career and ventured into acting, with notable roles in Hollywood blockbusters like “Black Hawk Down” and the “Resident Evil” franchise. Speaking at a recent event with Tommy Robinson, Marsden expressed concerns over what he perceives as societal changes in the UK, emphasizing the importance of cultural respect for host nations.
Despite his controversial online presence, Marsden has expressed a desire to return to Coronation Street for closure on his character’s storyline, reflecting on his fond memories of the show and the city of Manchester where it was set.
