Tragedy after promising Manchester actor, 27, died after 'falling ill' in Costa Rica

A promising young actor who appeared on Coronation Street died after suffering a seizure while on holiday, an inquest heard.

Joseph Owen Wandera, of Sussex Street, Salford, 27, died on January 16, 2022, while in Costa Rica with friends.

An inquest into Joseph’s death was opened at Rochdale Coroners’ Court on Thursday (February 24).

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During the short opening, Coroner Julie Robertson heard from police coroner officer Kathy Dixon who confirmed Joseph's details.

Joseph had been staying at Villa Verde One, in Calle L Cruz, Tamarindo, and attended a party the night of his death.

Ms Dixon said: “Whilst at a party, Joseph rang his girlfriend and explained that he did not feel well.

“He had lost sight in one eye and lost sensation in the left side of his body.

“He contacted a friend who picked him up and took him back to their apartment. Joseph went to sleep on the sofa.

“A few hours later, the friend found Joseph on the sofa having a seizure.

“Medics were called but they were unable to revive him and he sadly passed away.”

On Joseph's actor's profile, it was stated that he started out as part of the MaD Theatre Company, based in Monsall, where he performed at schools, theatres and festivals across Manchester.

He performed at the Manchester Fringe Festival in 2012, and had television roles in Scott & Bailey and Moving On. He also featured in a pilot for BBC Comedy Showcase and appeared in two reconstructions for BBC's Inside Out.

In 2018, Joseph appeared on Coronation Street as a buyer interested in purchasing Eileen Grimshaw's car.

He also underwent training to teach drama workshops at DNA Acting Class for children and young adults.