ITV executives were left reeling this week after a prominent Coronation Street actor failed to appear for a crucial live television appearance, a source close to the show has revealed.
The star, understood to be Alison King who plays factory boss Carla Connor, was scheduled to join This Morning hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard on Wednesday. The segment was intended to discuss the dramatic conclusion of a harrowing storyline involving her character's secret drinking and psychological collapse.
Instead of the planned interview, hosts were forced to awkwardly fill the airtime after the actor was a no-show. The incident has sparked significant tension behind the scenes at the broadcaster.
Production Chaos and Last-Minute Scramble
An insider described the atmosphere as "tense," with producers left scrambling when it became clear the actor would not be arriving. The live nature of the show meant there was no contingency plan for such a significant absence.
"It was a total nightmare for production," the source claimed. "The interview was meant to be a centrepiece of the show, capitalising on one of the biggest storylines in recent weeks. For her to not show up, especially for a live broadcast, is seen as deeply unprofessional."
The Aftermath and Internal Frustration
The snub has reportedly not gone down well with higher-ups at ITV. While the exact reason for the absence remains undisclosed, it has undoubtedly caused a rift.
This incident highlights the immense pressure and tight schedules that soap stars operate under. However, the expectation to fulfil major promotional commitments, particularly for a live audience of millions, is considered a fundamental part of the job.
Fans tuning in were left disappointed, missing the opportunity to hear directly from one of the soap's most iconic characters about a plot that has gripped the nation.
