David Platt’s (played by Jack P. Shepherd) life has been left in tatters since his rape ordeal and next week he will be put through even more pain when Josh Tucker (Ryan Clayton) sets his sights on Alya Nazir (Sair Khan).
In newly released pictures, David is left irritated when newcomer Emma (Alexandra Mardell) arrives at the salon.
The hair dresser is furious when he discovers Maria Connor (Samia Longchambon) hired the 19-year-old as an intern without consulting him first.
David has already been struggling at work and the prospect of change will no doubt upset him further.
Later, Alya Nazir calls into the salon to say she has a date with Josh.
While the news pleases both Maria and Jenny, David is devastated by the thought of this neighbour being alone with a rapist.
Newcomer Emma picks up on David’s sudden change in expression and clocks his distress.
Knowing what Josh is capable of and how he has made him feel, will David put a stop to Alya’s date?
Or will he choose to stay silent and continue to deal with his inner turmoil and overwhelming grief alone?
Meanwhile, can Emma get to the bottom of David’s sorrow and make him open up about his torment?
David’s storyline has provoked a huge reaction from Coronation Street viewers, with fans praising Jack’s convincing portrayal of a rape victim.
One person tweeted: “This storyline is excellent! #David Platt – showing the grim aftermath of GHB the date rape drug and that anyone can have this done to them. Congrats to the Corrie writers for putting it out there.
Another added: “Wow, David Platt is just breaking my heart. What phenomenal acting #Corrie.”
A third said: “I am completely with @itvcorrie and their storyline with David Platt at the minute. Everyone moaning that it’s too dark. No it’s just life! (For some anyway) these things need addressing, so good on Corrie!”
Coronation Street producer Kate Oates said the sexual assault storyline was one that is important to “highlight”.
She explained: “We decided to cover the topic of male rape to help try and highlight the culture of silence that surrounds male sexual assault, and issues surrounding male mental health in general.”
Kate went on to tell Digital Spy: ”Survivors Manchester have been so generous with their time and knowledge, working with Jack, Ryan and the team, and I’m in awe of the work they do.
“Over the next few weeks of Corrie, our message is to talk: it’s hard to speak out, but if you’re suffering in silence, there are people out there willing to listen and support you.”
Coronation Street continues tomorrow on ITV at 7.30pm and 8.30pm.
