Every time Rob Mallard steps into the Rovers Return as his character Daniel Osbourne on “Coronation Street,” he faces a unique challenge—managing his essential tremor, a progressive neurological condition causing involuntary shaking. The 32-year-old actor has opened up about his struggle with the condition, which he first noticed at age 14.
Mallard recalls the early days when friends and family pointed out the slight tremor in his left hand, leading to a diagnosis after a year of tests. Essential tremor affects around a million people in Britain, yet only 15 percent are aware of the condition. Despite the diagnosis, there was little his doctor could do other than suggest medication to alleviate the symptoms.
The condition began to interfere with Mallard’s career in his twenties, particularly during theatrical performances. Beta blockers, typically used for heart conditions, were ineffective in controlling his tremors without impacting his acting abilities. Since joining “Coronation Street” in 2016, Mallard has developed techniques to cope, such as breaking actions into smaller parts and rehearsing movements repeatedly.
Holding a pint on set remains one of his biggest challenges. “If I’m already in the scene, I’ll get them to give me a drink that’s two-thirds gone,” he explains. However, entering a scene and ordering a full pint often leads to difficulties.
As his condition worsens, affecting both hands, his arms, neck, and occasionally his voice, Mallard finds everyday activities increasingly challenging. Public misunderstandings, like assuming he has been drinking, add to the difficulties. “Using a chip and pin, and your hand’s going and you get a ‘look’ from the cashier,” he says.
Mallard manages his symptoms by avoiding triggers like lack of sleep, hunger, and coffee. Despite the growing impact of his tremor, he remains hopeful about potential treatments like focused ultrasound, which targets brain tissue linked to the tremor.
In the meantime, Mallard is committed to raising awareness through his work with the National Tremor Foundation, encouraging others to embrace their condition. “I was embarrassed about it for years,” he admits. “Eventually, I just had to choose to own it.”
Mallard’s journey highlights the daily challenges of living with essential tremor and his determination to continue his career despite the obstacles.