13-year-old Jude Riordan, who plays the role of Sam Blakeman on the show, has changed his appearance drastically, prompting many fans to express their shock.

Taking to Instagram, he then went on to show off his new haircut before revealing that he has received dozens of comments about how old he looks.

Coronation Street star Jude Riordan addresses long absence from the ITV show

The Coronation Street star said: "Lots of messages saying how old I look and how old I am now."

He added: "I know Sam has been missing offscreen for about 34 years, but I will be 14 in a few weeks."

In another social media post labelled "Headshots 2025," the actor shared some more grown-up photos with fans of the ITV show.

Many took to the comment section of the post to share their shock and amazement, with one person writing: "Fantastic actor growing up. You will be on our screens for years, and lovely to watch you grow."

Another penned: "You look so grown up, where has little Sam gone ?!!!!," while a third said: "Oh! You’re growing up so much, Jude. I think we’ve lost our little Sam."

A fourth user added: "Wow, you look so grown up! Can't believe you're nearly 14. You look so young in Corrie."

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Jude joined the show all the way back in 2020 and took on the role of Nick's long-lost son.

A year after his soap debut, he won the National Television Award for Best Newcomer, making him the youngest person to receive the honour.

He first rose to fame in 2017 after appearing on the Channel 4 documentary The Secret Life of 4 Year Olds.