In the wake of a deplorable attack on David Platt, things are going to get even worse as the character struggles to deal with his attacker Josh sticking around in Coronation Street. And, as Josh continues to manipulate David’s friends and neighbours, David will feel too intimidated to speak out and his ordeal will have a heavy impact on his mental health.
Fans will be horrified when Josh drugs David’s drink during a night out and later attacks him and when David wakes up and realises what has happened to him, he confronts Josh – who tries to play down the incident.
And with Josh not set to go anywhere any time soon – Corrie confirm that the story will be running into summer – it’s going to be an arduous few months for David.
Ryan Clayton, who plays sinister Josh, told Metro.co.uk: ‘There’s a lot in the aftermath and how Josh chooses to play that and what games and manipulation tricks he chooses to play and how he can possibly keep it under wraps.
‘David has an awareness of what has happened, so when he tackles him, this guy isn’t going to just disappear, he’s going to hold his ground. The confidence that you see now, which is the affable cheeky chap then turns into the manipulation. David’s saying “I know what you did” and he’s denying it – that’s why it’s very hard for David and that’s when it becomes a sort of men’s mental health story, which is David can’t deal with what he’s internalising and this guy is still there and charming everybody.
‘He’s realised that David isn’t going to tell anybody, so there’s this whole thing of how that then affects David, and there are consequences along the line, all the way.’
But while the Corrie locals think that Josh is a nice guy, Ryan is more than aware that the fans won’t be forgiving when the scenes air – and he is bracing himself for the backlash.
Asked if he is ready for what’s to come on social media, he said: ‘Talking to the cast I don’t think you can ever be truly ready for it. But I take it as it comes and I appreciate it might come so I’m anticipating it. It’s nice to know the audience are just involved in it, watching and invested. I guess it shows I’m doing a good job so if anything it’s a compliment.
‘The way Connor McIntyre (Phelan) deals with it is a great way and he’s a great people person. As soon as you show your real side that’s the best way to deal with people. Kill them with kindness!’
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