Aidan Connor’s final scenes in Coronation Street will air tonight before the character takes his own life.
The factory owner, played by actor Shayne Ward, has been hiding his depression from friends and family, and will end his life off-screen.
Aidan’s original final scenes would have shown him in the Rovers with his family, appearing detached from them.
But outgoing Corrie boss Kate Oates has revealed how Aidan’s final scenes were changed at actor Shayne’s request.
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She explained: “The final scene in which we see Aidan is entirely of Shayne’s creation.
“Originally we were just going to see Aidan at the pub with his family. Life’s going on around him and he’s just completely disengaged.
“But Shayne instinctively said, ‘That feels really wrong to me. I think I need another moment and Aidan needs it too’.
“So we added a final scene of him breaking down at the flat.
“Now when I watch these episodes, they wouldn’t feel complete without it.”
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The show worked with a variety of charities to ensure they portrayed the storyline as accurately and sensitively as possible.
The aftermath of Aidan taking of his own life will be felt far across the cobbles in months and years to come.
If you or anyone you know is struggling with depression or suicidal ideation, please call Samaritans for free on 116 123.
Coronation Street airs tonight at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV