Rob Donovan’s Murderous Past on Coronation Street Revisited

Rob Donovan is back in Coronation Street, and it’s time to revisit his dark history on the cobbles. As one of the show’s most notorious characters, his return creates waves of anticipation among fans.

Rob Donovan, played by actor Marc Baylis, is the brother of Carla Connor and the father of Bobby Crawford. As his character resurfaces, he looks to assist Carla, who is in desperate need of a kidney transplant. Currently incarcerated for the murder of beloved character Tina McIntyre, the question looms: will Rob step up to save his sister?

Rob entered the lives of Weatherfield residents after his release from prison, seeking a fresh start with Carla’s help. His initial attempt to reintegrate into the community saw him taking charge at the factory while Carla and Peter were away. However, old habits die hard; soon, he was embroiled in deceitful activities, attempting to manipulate business dealings and ultimately competing against Carla in the factory game.

His romantic entanglement with Tracy Barlow ignited further drama. Together, they launched Barlow’s Buys, a shop that initially operated above board but quickly fell into shady territory when they began selling stolen goods supplied by the dubious Tony Stewart. When Tina McIntyre uncovered their illicit activities, tensions reached a breaking point. During a confrontation at Rob and Tracy’s engagement party, Rob, unable to contain his fury, tragically pushed Tina from a balcony. Though she survived the fall, he brutally finished the job moments later, leading to his infamous reputation.

As the investigation unfolded, Peter Barlow was wrongfully accused and convicted of Tina’s murder, while Rob and Tracy built their wedding plans amid the chaos. It wasn’t until Carla discovered the truth on the eve of the wedding that the facade crumbled, leading to a high-stakes escape for Rob.

In a twist, Rob later contacted Johnny Connor from prison, revealing familial secrets that intertwined their lives. Escaping briefly during a prison transfer mishap continued to define Rob’s turbulent life, but he was soon recaptured.

Now, as Rob circles back to the story in 2025, he finds himself in a pivotal moment. Bobby, Rob’s son, who he never knew existed, has come to visit him in prison, asking the crucial question about donating a kidney to save Carla. With family ties and a chance at redemption on the line, Rob’s choice remains uncertain.

Rob Donovan’s complex past and impending decisions are sure to make for riveting television as Coronation Street unfolds this latest chapter. How will he respond to Bobby’s request, and what implications will it have for his relationship with Carla? Fans are eager to see how this dramatic reunion plays out on screen.