Emmerdale and Coronation Street actor Jonathan Wrather has spoken movingly about his late father’s battle with motor neurone disease (MND), describing the illness as “a cruel disease that wastes everything.”

The 56-year-old actor, best known for his role as Pierce Harris in Emmerdale and Joe Carter in Coronation Street, shared his father Bill’s heartbreaking six-year struggle in an emotional new interview.

“MND Wastes Everything”

Jonathan revealed that his father’s condition began subtly, but over time, MND robbed him of his independence and his ability to move or speak. “MND is a cruel disease. It wastes everything,” he told The Mirror. “Even the muscles you don’t see, those you use to breathe and speak. It’s like cancer — it’s indiscriminate.”

Bill, who lived with MND for six years, passed away peacefully in December 2023 at the age of 84.

Their Final Drive Together

Jonathan recalled one of their final days out — a memory that was both heartwarming and bittersweet. During a countryside picnic in Macclesfield Forest, his father began losing strength in one arm and hand.

“He was still driving at this point, and I probably shouldn’t say this,” Jonathan admitted, “but I remember having to change the gears while he worked the clutch. It’s a fond memory of our last drive tearing around country lanes, but it was also when I realised the disease had taken hold.”

Using His Platform for Awareness

Since his father’s passing, Jonathan has devoted his time to raising awareness and funds for MND research. He will appear at the Rye Arts Festival in Licensed to Thrill, a James Bond celebration performance alongside Sally Bayly, with proceeds going toward MND charities.

“I want to do what I can to help,” Jonathan explained. “Watching someone you love fade away in that way changes you. This cause means everything to me.”

A Disease That Touches Many

Jonathan’s interview comes shortly after former England Rugby Union captain Lewis Moody revealed his own MND diagnosis. In a powerful BBC Breakfast interview, Lewis, 47, described the shock of hearing the news and the heartbreak of telling his family.

Reflecting on the devastating moment, Lewis said: “We sat on the couch in tears, Ethan and Dylan wrapped up in each other, and then the dog jumped up and started licking the tears off our faces. It was heartbreaking but also strangely comforting.”

His wife, Annie Moody, praised his strength, saying, “It’s so typical of you, that’s just so Lewis. I’m in awe of you.”

Keeping Hope Alive

Both men’s stories highlight the urgent need for awareness, funding, and compassion in the fight against MND. As Jonathan continues to share his father’s story, he hopes to inspire others to cherish time with their loved ones and support the ongoing search for a cure.