Ryan Thomas: The Soap Star Who Conquered the Ice and Returned to His Roots

Introduction: A British Television Icon Reinvents Himself

Ryan Thomas has firmly established himself as one of Britain’s most beloved television personalities. Born on 10 June 1984 in Manchester, Lancashire, England, the actor has successfully transitioned from soap opera star to reality television champion, proving his versatility in the entertainment industry. His journey represents a remarkable evolution from his teenage debut on Coronation Street to becoming a household name across multiple platforms.

Dancing on Ice Triumph

Soap star Ryan Thomas and his ice skating partner Amani Fancy were crowned the winners of Dancing on Ice 2024. His final performance was a warrior-themed routine to Believer by Imagine Dragons, which featured dramatic lifts and spins, and secured them a perfect 40 from the judges. The victory was particularly poignant as Thomas dedicated his trophy to fellow competitor Greg Rutherford, who had withdrawn from the final due to injury.

Emotional Return to Coronation Street

Following his Dancing on Ice success, Thomas made his debut in Coronation Street on Christmas Day 2000, departing in June 2016, before making a brief return to the role in May 2025. The 40-year-old actor said the return was “a mix of nostalgia and gratitude for what the show has done for me,” adding that “when they told me Eileen was leaving, it felt right to be a part of that storyline”.

New Ventures and Family Life

Ryan Thomas has announced an exciting new career venture along with his two famous brothers, launching a new podcast with Love Island star Scott Thomas and Waterloo Road actor Adam Thomas. Thomas has been in a relationship with Lucy Mecklenburgh since 2017, became engaged to her in June 2019, and they have a son and a daughter together.

Conclusion: A Career Built on Versatility

Ryan Thomas’s career trajectory demonstrates the importance of adaptability in the entertainment industry. Though he announced his retirement from acting in 2021, he has continued his work in television and won the sixteenth series of Dancing on Ice in 2024, as well as returning to Coronation Street for a short stint the following year. His ability to reinvent himself while maintaining strong connections to his roots ensures he remains relevant to British audiences. For fans and aspiring performers alike, Thomas exemplifies how loyalty, hard work, and willingness to embrace new challenges can lead to sustained success in television.