Corrie newcomer Ryan Russell will not be axed from the ITV soap – despite admitting to posting offensive tweets in the past.
The former CBeebies presenter – who is joining the soap as Michael Bailey this summer – will retain his job on the programme after he reportedly gave show bosses “assurances about his conduct, values and behaviour”.
The tweets, believed to have been posted between 2011 and 2013, are said to have been sexist and homophobic in nature.
However, the 27-year-old has apologised for the now-deleted posts and admits he feels “embarrassed” by some of the tweets.
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He said in a statement: “First and foremost, I want to take ownership for my behaviour and apologise for some of the language that I’ve previously used on social media.
“I’m embarrassed by some of my previous social media posts but hope to be able to use my platform to educate, inspire and engage others. As with anything in life, I believe that it’s about self-reflection, education and growth.
“I’m truly sorry and believe that the tweets are not an accurate representation of the person that I am, or aspire to be.”
A spokesperson for Corrie is reported to have told Digital Spy: “The tweets in question are no longer in the public domain and were deleted by Ryan in 2013 shortly after they had been published because he realised they were offensive and regretted that he had posted in this way.
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“He has spoken with producers today and given them assurances about his conduct, values and behaviour going forward.”
Emmerdale actress Shila Iqbal was recently fired from the soap following the unearthing of old racist and homophobic tweets.
According to The Sun, a TV source has highlighted how it could appear a similar issue was handled differently by telly bosses.
The anonymous insider is reported to have said: “It’s a bit baffling why only one of them was given a second chance.
“Both made comments in historic tweets that they both regretted as they got older but only Ryan has been given a chance.”
ED! has contacted a Coronation Street rep for comment.
– Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV
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