Andy has been a major part of some of long-running soap’s most dramatic storylines

Coronation Street star Andy Whyment has shared a family update. He has sent a birthday message to his daughter Hollie as she turns 15 today. Andy is one of Coronation Street’s most legendary faces, the soap star has played Kirk Sutherland on the Cobbles since 2000.

Kirk has been a major part of some of long-running soap’s most dramatic storylines. Away from the screen, Andy’s life is much more settled than his character’s as he is happily married to Nicola Willis. The happy couple have been married since 2007 and share two children named Thomas and Hollie.

On Instagram this morning, Andy said: “Happy 15th Birthday Hollie, we love you very much. Enjoy your day”, as he shared pictures of the family together and one of his daughter alone. Birthday messages were sent to Hollie from other Coronation Street stars and fans of the Kirk Sutherland star.

Alan Halsall, known for playing the role of Tyrone Dobbs on the soap and being the best friend of Andy, commented “Happy birthday Hollie” alongside a red heart emoji. Tanisha Gorey, who plays Asha Alahan also responded “Happy birthday Hollie” and a heart emoji.

Others wrote: “Happy Birthday. Gorgeous Hollie, have a fantastic day celebrating” and “A very happy birthday Hollie, hope you have a great birthday and get lots of presents.”

Andy spoke about his wife in an interview with OK! Magazine in 2017 as he said he is a lucky man. He said: “I’ve been punching above my weight for years – she’s gorgeous! I’m a very lucky bloke.

“We’ve been together 14 years and we just don’t argue. We get on so well.” Andy regularly shares an insight into his happy life on social media as the family often enjoy luxurious trips abroad together.

Andy is a proud dad and in June he shared the special update that his son Thomas had finished high school. He shared a snap alongside his son and wrote “school’s out”, he told followers he was “really proud” and was looking forward to seeing his son move onto the “next chapter” of his life.

While he shares insights into his home life, Andy makes it clear that he is proud of his achievements on-screen. Earlier this year, Andy addressed rumours that Coronation Street is “on its knees”. His statement came after multiple cobbles stars announced their exit from the show.

It was rumoured ITV was facing a budget crisis with many stars axed from both Corrie and Emmerdale. Andy went straight to Instagram to deny these allegations and clear Coronation Street’s reputation.

He said: “There is a story about Coronation Street in the press nearly every day at the moment. I’d just like to say that the show is not on its knees and there is most certainly not a cast revolt as one article has said.

“Please don’t believe everything you read, I for at least one cast member am extremely happy and feel very grateful to still be working on Coronation Street.”