Coronation Street fans have been left baffled by Summer Spellman's unwavering support for newcomer Marco Rhodes, a man she has only known for a short time, as he faces a difficult time behind bars.
Viewers of the ITV soap, filmed in Salford, were introduced to Marco in September. Summer first spoke to him when he complimented her drawing while they were both in the café. However, when she went to the toilet, Marco tore the page from her notebook and left. She later saw her drawing displayed in the window of a tattoo shop and confronted him about the theft.
Marco explained it was just an excuse to see her again and offered to buy the drawing, suggesting they meet for a drink later. Despite the awkward start, Summer seemed keen to pursue a relationship until she learned he had been arrested. He had acted as a getaway driver while wearing an electronic tag, and due to his prior convictions, he was refused bail and remanded in custody.
Gary Windass and Ross Wilkes in the prison plot
Marco now shares a cell with Gary Windass, who was recently sentenced to eight months for covering up the murder of Theo Silverton, after helping Sarah Platt, who killed the abusive builder in self-defence. Gary promised to keep his head down, but he noticed prison officer Ross mistreating Marco, who had a wound on his arm. Despite his wife Maria's plea to avoid trouble, Gary stood up for Marco, which angered Ross.
Ross later retaliated by suggesting to Gary that Maria was getting close to Idris Nazir while her husband was inside.
Fans question Summer's loyalty
Although Marco has refused to see her, a heartbroken Summer has pledged to stand by him and secured the help of Weatherfield solicitors Adam Barlow and Alya Nazir. This devotion has confused many viewers.
One fan wrote on social media: "She's only known Marco 2 minutes! #Corrie." Another said: "It's crazy, she like knew him for a day!" A third commented: "Reminds me of Fiz back in John Stape days. Although did Fiz did date Stape before her stupidity."
Another viewer posted: "What's wrong with Summer? She went on one date with Marco, and now she wants to be a prison widow for the next 20 years! #Corrie." Others echoed similar sentiments, with one writing: "Not that i particularly care, but summer and her prison boyfriend??? why is she so invested in a guy she's been on like three dates with." Another added: "Summer barely knows Marco. They went out a couple of times. #CoronationStreet #Corrie."
