Coronation Street's trend of introducing morally ambiguous male characters continues as actor Junade Khan, who plays newcomer Idris Nazir, warns that his character's dark side will soon emerge with violence. Idris arrived on the cobbles as a charismatic businessman, reuniting with cousin Alya Nazir and quickly catching the attention of Leanne Battersby and Tracy Barlow, while also impressing Brody Michaelis. However, his menacing side was hinted when he walled up Damo, who owed him money, in the ginnel, interrupted only by Brody's questioning of Idris's business legitimacy.
Idris's Dark Secrets and Violence
Junade Khan confirmed that Idris has more secrets and violence in store. 'There are a few secrets coming, and a bit of violence, maybe,' he teased. This follows a pattern of recent male additions to the street, such as stalker Mal Roper, abusive Theo Silverton, and initially rancid Carl Webster, though Ben Driscoll is exempted from this list.
Impact on Leanne Battersby
Khan also hinted that Idris will influence Leanne, potentially bringing out her darker side. 'Idris will probably bring out the dark side in Leanne a little bit,' he said. While Leanne has matured, her past includes kidnapping Megan Walsh. The budding relationship with Idris is moving quickly, which concerns her ex-husband Nick Tilsley, especially as Idris forms a bond with Sam, Nick's step-son.
Conflict with Nick Tilsley
According to Khan, 'He doesn't like the fact that it's moving very quick with Idris and Leanne. Sam gets involved, and likes Idris... but Nick has a lot of reservations about Idris as a person. He doesn't trust him whatsoever. It's going to kick off between them at one point.' Ben Price, who plays Nick, elaborated: 'I think he finds it very difficult. Idris has come in, you will see Sam opening up to him... and I think Nick then feels quite lost, and then also gets angry and a bit protective.' Price added that Nick is pained seeing Leanne with someone else, especially a successful businessman like Idris, which mirrors his past rivalry with Peter Barlow.
