John Saint Ryan, the renowned English actor, horse trainer and equestrian, who was best known for his role as Charlie Whelan in the British television soap opera, Coronation Street, has passed away.
The beloved movie star died at the age of 72 on 3 April 2025.
With a career spanning decades across television, film, and the equestrian world, John Saint Ryan has certainly left behind an enduring legacy that has been marked by talent, versatility, and great passion.
What Happened To John Saint Ryan?
Our findings show that John Saint Ryan died after suffering a terrible heart attack. Statement from his family revealed that Ryan suffered the heart attack on the evening of Thursday 3rd of April, 2025.
Upon discovering what had happened, his family quickly called for medical assistance and the actor was immediately rushed to the hospital where doctors battled to save his life. The statement from the family explained that doctors in the hospital did everything humanly possible to save Ryan.
The fight to save Ryan’s life went on for some time in hospital, as his family prayed earnestly for his survival. But, in the end, he sadly didn’t survive it.
John Saint Ryan’s passing threw the entire family off balance and in deep despair. This is more so because the actor’s death came so suddenly. One day, he was hale and hearty and the next, he was gone.
The family statement explained that everyone was left “deeply devastated” by the tragic development, as they struggled to understand what had just happened. For them, Ryan’s sudden death has dug a hole that can never be filled again.
How John Saint Ryan Built A Distinguished Career in Television and Film
Today, we know John Saint Ryan for his work in films and TV series, but it turns out that acting was not actually his first love. Born in 1953 in Burnley, Lancashire, Ryan did not initially pursue a career in front of the cameras.
As a mater of fact, he initially began his professional journey far from the spotlight—as a martial arts instructor and bookseller. As a martial arts instructor, Ryan ran and instructed a Muay Thai gym in Preston that was called “Fighting Fit”, and actually did really well as an instructor.
Ryan did this for some years before eventually discovering his love for acting. His transition into acting came in the early 1980s, when he made his debut in the British television series GBH in 1983, before taking on a supporting role in Emmerdale.
His most iconic performance came in Coronation Street, where he portrayed Charlie Whelan between 1987 and 1993. Across 60 episodes, Saint Ryan captivated audiences as the rugged lorry driver and love interest of Bet Gilroy, played by Julie Goodyear. His character’s dramatic storyline—leaving Bet for Tanya Poole (Eva Pope)—remains a memorable arc in the show’s rich history.
In addition to his soap opera success, John Saint Ryan earned international recognition with appearances in hit American TV series including CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Roar alongside a young Heath Ledger.
His film credits also include work as a stunt double for Sean Connery in The Medicine Man (1992), in which he demonstrated his background and expertise in martial arts and physical performance.
Ryan Was Also Known For His Equestrian Excellence
As we have already explained, acting was not he only thing John Saint Ryan loved. This is because, beyond acting, he was also a very passionate equestrian and respected horse trainer.
In the 1990s, he relocated to California and founded the Red Rose Ranch, a premier training facility where he raised, boarded, and trained horses. He became a popular figure in the equestrian community.
His work focused on dressage and western riding, and he became a beloved figure in the equestrian community for his dedication to horsemanship and mentorship of young riders.
The Actor Did Not Want a Formal Funeral
John Saint Ryan’s death was confirmed by his wife, Joyce, in a heartfelt statement shared on social media. In the statement, she revealed that Ryan suffered a heart attack on the evening of Thursday, April 3rd.
However, despite the efforts of medical personnel, he did not survive the tragic ordeal and shortly passed away. Interestingly, Joyce also revealed that Ryan had left instructions about how he wanted his funeral to be conducted.
According to Joyce, Ryan did not want a formal funeral. She explained that Ryan had decided to donate his body to medical research and so, he wanted a very quiet, informal farewell held for him.
Joyce shared:
“In accordance with John’s wishes, there will be no formal funeral. He generously chose to donate his body to medical research. At a later date, we will honor his life with a celebration befitting the extraordinary man he was.”
READ ALSO: Roberta Flack: How The Legendary American Singer And Pianist Died
Who Is The Actor Survived By?
John Saint Ryan is survived by his wife Joyce and their three sons, including Samuel Barker, an Emmy Award-winning lighting director for The Voice. He remained a lifelong supporter of Burnley Football Club, a nod to his Lancashire roots.
Those who knew him best have described him as a “gentleman” — a title that has been variously echoed by fans, colleagues, and loved ones in the days following his passing. He respected everyone and was deeply loved.
The Legacy Of John Saint Ryan
John Saint Ryan was an exemplary figure in the entertainment industry. His story has proven to everyone that even an ordinary man can rise to the corridors of fame and accomplishment with proper dedication, passion and focus.
From British stage productions of A Streetcar Named Desire and Far From the Madding Crowd, to his global impact on screens large and small, Ryan exemplified great creative range, personal integrity, and true dedication to his craft. This has inspired many younger talents over the years.
Apart from his excellence onscreen, Ryan was also loved for the way he lived his life away from scandals. The actor never got into any scandal during his career, and was beloved by many. As an actor, horseman, martial artist, and mentor, John Saint Ryan indeed leaves behind a legacy defined by excellence and a life well lived.
