Coronation Street star Beth Nixon has spoken about taking on her 'life-changing' role in the long-running show, days after her exit scenes as Megan Walsh aired. The actress made her debut in the ITV soap and on-screen debut as an actress last year.
Megan arrived in Weatherfield after Will Driscoll went missing following his dad, Ben Driscoll, surprising partner Eva Price by moving to the cobbles to run the Rovers Return. However, it was soon revealed that Will didn't want to leave Hull because he was in a secret relationship with Megan as part of a shocking grooming plot, with the pair sleeping together just as he turned 16.
Truth Exposed and Court Drama
Months later, the truth was exposed when Sam Blakeman, who had sussed out what was going on and was being threatened by Megan into silence, ended up in hospital and eventually confessed what he knew to stepmother Leanne Battersby and her sister, Will's stepmother, Eva. It took a while for justice to be served as Will backed up Megan's false story that he had an out-of-control crush she tried to shut down. In the end, after thinking he had been plotting an escape with Megan, Will finally told the police the truth, after an intervention by a neighbour and a local cab driver, Tim Metcalfe.
Last week, the drama in court played out. After originally telling the court he lied about his relationship with Megan, Will went on to take the stand again, confirming his groomer's devastating lies. Eventually, the teacher, accused of grooming and sexually abusing her student, found out her fate. She was found guilty on two charges: inciting a child into engaging in sexual activity while being in a position of trust. It was later confirmed she had been sentenced to five years in prison. Not taking the news well, Megan broke down in tears and started lashing out, making it clear that she would appeal the decision as she branded Will a liar.
Beth Nixon's Fond Farewell
Beth, meanwhile, has now been seen looking back fondly at her time on the cobbles. Taking to Instagram, she shared a string of behind-the-scenes snaps from her time on the Salford-based set, as well as posting a number of photos showing her close relationship with her co-stars away from the show. Captioning the post, the soap star wrote: "Megan, you're a cow and I'll miss you like a hole in the head. Thank you thank you thank you to every single person at @coronationstreet you've changed my life! Peace out."
Her former castmates were quick to show their support. Olivia Frances Brown, who joined the ITV soap as Jodie Ramsey earlier this year, declared: "SMASHED IT!!!" Betsy Swain actress Sydney Martin commented: "You are just incredible. Can’t wait to watch you soar x." Catherine Tyldesley, who plays Eva Price, said: "We love you! Outstanding!!!!" Lou Michaelis star Farrel Hegarty added: "Amazing you are."
