Coronation Street actress Kym Marsh has revealed that she drew on her own experience of losing a son to portray Michelle Connor's baby loss storyline. Marsh, who lost her son Archie at 21 weeks in 2009, said she went to 'very dark places' while filming the scenes.
The storyline sees Michelle Connor lose her baby at 23 weeks. Marsh said she thought 'long and hard' before taking on the role but felt it was an important story to raise awareness of a tragedy affecting thousands of women each year.
The actress praised her family, friends, and colleagues for their support during the challenging filming process. Coronation Street provided a counsellor on set at all times. Marsh added that going home to her children was the best tonic after emotional days.
Coronation Street producer Kate Oates expressed hope that the storyline would encourage discussion and compassion for those affected by baby loss. The stillbirth charity Sands collaborated with the soap, with bereavement specialist Erica Stewart stating that the drama could help lift the taboo surrounding the death of a baby.
