Coronation Street is set to air harrowing scenes next week as Simon Barlow's reckless actions leave a young resident fighting for his life. The troubled character, who has been struggling since his father Peter Barlow's departure, continues to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism, with devastating consequences.
In upcoming episodes, Simon agrees to drive 12-year-old Sam Blakeman to a chess competition, unaware that he is still far over the legal alcohol limit. He loses control of the car and crashes into a road sign, panicking as he orders Sam to flee the scene. Simon later confesses to his stepmother Leanne Battersby but refuses to contact the police, leading her to cover up the true cause of the accident by claiming a brake fault.
However, Sam begins behaving strangely the following day and collapses, prompting an urgent dash to hospital. Doctors are informed about the crash, and Nick Tilsley, Sam's father, learns from Leanne that the brakes were not to blame. As the truth about Simon's drinking emerges, a guilt-ridden Simon decides to take responsibility, but Nick is furious and banishes him from the house, leaving Leanne caught in the middle.
After spending the night rough, Simon is found by Leanne and finally opens up about his alcohol struggles. He admits to Nick, Leanne, and Toyah that he has been drinking too much and vows to change. Whether his apology will be enough to repair the damage with Nick remains to be seen.
Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
