Derrick Gilbert (born 26th May, 1937) played four different roles on Coronation Street: John Meakin in 1966, a Reporter in 1967, CPO Henderson in 1978 and Mr Ballantyne in 1989. As the character of John Meakin was a reporter, it is possible that this character and the un-named reporter in 1967 are one and the same character. He also appeared in the spin-off Turn out the Lights in 1967.

His other credits include Doctor Who, Counterstrike and The Onedin Line.