Coronation Street fans have predicted that Shayne Ward will be sweeping the boards at every soap awards ceremony for the foreseeable future after his spectacular performance as tragic Aidan Connor last night.
The Corrie double bill focused on Aidan saying goodbye to his loved ones as he prepared to take his own life, and fans have been left heartbroken by both Shayne Ward and Catherine Tyldesley’s (who plays Eva Price) performances.
Read more: Corrie: The Connors are shocked by Aidan’s will
While most fans took to Twitter to express their utter devastation at the storyline, many have called out for both Shayne and Coronation Street too win ‘all the awards’ after tackling such an important issue like male suicide…
Shayne himself also spoke out on social media following the episodes being on screen – once again highlighting the importance of speaking out when it comes to suicide…
Many of Shayne’s co-stars retweeted his message in the hope it will encourage more people in Aidan’s position to speak out about how they’re feeling.
Corrie actress Samia Longchambon, who plays Maria Connor, also praised her colleague for his performance. A tweet that received a lot of praise from her followers…
Daniel Brocklebank, better known as Corrie’s Billy Mayhew, also spoke out following the episodes…
While last night’s trip to the cobbles was hard viewing, tomorrow night’s episodes promised to be equally as hard-hitting as Aidan’s friends and family discover what he has done.
The fall out from Aidan’s death will be huge – sending shockwaves around the Street, even helping David Platt find the courage to speak out about his sexual abuse at the hands of Josh Tucker.
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Shayne has also made a video along with ITV urging people in Aidan’s position to speak out.
In the short clip the actor tells viewers: “We don’t want you to be struggling with these difficult thoughts alone, and this is something we wanted to get across in Aidan’s story. Talking can bring relief and help us see a way through.”
If you have been affected by Aidan's story, please visit: https://t.co/W35MEI9xnr where help and support is available. #Corrie #CoronationStreet #ShayneWard #AidanConnor pic.twitter.com/jGxHfPVFFI
— Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) May 7, 2018
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV. Aidan’s story continues tomorrow night at 7.30pm.
If you are struggling with depression or suicidal ideation, or are concerned about a loved one, please contact Samaritans free on 116 123 for support and advice.