John Saint Ryan dies aged 72

John was more than just an actor…

John Saint Ryan was a master of many trades across his professional life from performing as an actor, horse trainer, author and musician. This multifaceted career of over fifty years spanned the realms of martial arts, performing arts and equestrian pursuits.

Born in Burnley, Lancashire in 1953, Saint Ryan spent part of his upbringing in Ireland. He dedicated 27 years to teaching martial arts across Europe, coaching 12 individuals to become national champions. His expertise led to his election as Chairman of the British Karate Association.

First encounter with Bet (Julie Goodyear) as Charlie (John St Ryan) gives her a lift home in December 1993 / Granada TV

A little extra work on the side: Charlie does a deal with Reg for illicit French lager in May 1994 / Granada TV

John’s venture into the entertainment industry began as a stunt double for Sean Connery in the film The Medicine Man. He made his acting debut in 1983 on Channel 4’s gritty drama G.B.H. and secured a brief stint in Yorkshire Television’s rural soap opera Emmerdale Farm as Jameson.

He is perhaps best known in the UK for portraying American trucker Charlie Whelan in Granada Television’s Coronation Street where he wooed landlady Bet Lynch (Julie Goodyear) for over 50 episodes in the mid-1990s. Other storylines saw him get involved in illegal smuggling of alcohol which he sold on to corner shop owner Reg Holdsworth (Ken Morley).

Working between the UK and America, notably the latter, his diverse television appearances included roles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Murder, She Wrote and Cybill. In film, he played the main antagonist Cyborg in American Cyborg: Steel Warrior and took on the role of Myles Standish in Disney’s Squanto: A Warrior’s Tale. ​

In the early 1990s, John relocated to California, where he established the Red Rose Ranch. There, he trained horses and riders in both dressage and western riding, specialising in the doma vaquera style. His dedication earned him multiple national and international titles in the sport. He was profoundly influenced by renowned horseman Tom Dorrance, which deepened his commitment to horsemanship.

A day at the races in April 1994 for Jim and Liz McDonald (Charlie Lawson/Beverley Callard) and Charlie and Bet (John St Ryan/Julie Goodyear) / Granada TV

Brakes on: August 1994 sees trucker Charlie’s road come to an end with Bet / Granada TV

Saint Ryan authored several works on horsemanship, including “A Voice for the Horse” and “More Than a Horseman.” Beyond his equestrian and acting endeavours, he was a musician, singer, and songwriter. He maintained a YouTube channel where he shared his music and insights on horsemanship.

John Saint Ryan passed away on April 3, 2025, at the age of 72, due to a heart attack. He is survived by his wife, Joyce, and three sons. In accordance with his wishes, his body was donated to medical research, and a celebration of his life is planned for a future date. ​

John Saint Ryan 27th March 1953 – 3rd April 2025