As we all know, Corrie’s ‘Grooming Bethany’ storyline has become darker and darker over the past few weeks, as the teenager falls deeper into boyfriend Nathan’s seedy world.
And despite the fact the story is merely portraying scenarios that sadly happen in every day life, viewers have found the plot very hard to watch. And rightfully so.
But an episode that was screened last week after the 9pm watershed has angered a handful of fans who have complained to telly watchdog Ofcom.
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In the offending episode, Nathan offered Bethany up to three dubious men and led her into a bedroom where she awaited them.
The last image viewers were shown was of Bethany sitting nervously on the edge of the bed as the three men joined her in the bedroom, shutting the door behind them.
Even though we were not shown graphic details of what happened next, the implication that she was forced into sex against her will was obvious and viewers have found this very unsettling.
According to reports, the show could be investigated by Ofcom after the number of complaints rose.
A spokesman for Ofcom told The Sun they are looking to see if there is a need for an enquiry.
“We are assessing 25 complaints objecting to violence/sexual tone of the child grooming storyline before deciding whether or not to investigate.”
It appears that just after the disturbing post watershed episode aired – which was watched by over seven millions viewers – thirteen complaints were lodged. This doubled over the next few days.
In the following episode, viewers were relieved to see Nathan finally arrested by police but were shocked when it appeared that Bethany still had feelings for the man who had put her through so much.
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Speaking to OK! this week, Chris Harper, who plays Nathan responded to the criticism surrounding the controversial storyline.
“When you look at the enormous response it underlines that the story has the continued backing and support of the charities we work with, the survivors and victims we talk to, and the vast majority of mums, dads, sons and daughters who communicate with us,” he said.
“It is nasty – sexual abuse is a horrific, life-changing crime – but perpetrators succeed because of people’s shame.
“Corrie is just a small part in a big movement to stop these predators getting away with their crimes. ”
The story continues….