Coronation Street fans have been left devastated by Sam Blakeman's mental health storyline in recent episodes. The character, portrayed by Jude Riordan, suffered a harrowing psychosis episode on Friday, leading to his hospitalization after hallucinations involving a distorted version of Roy Cropper and severe paranoia.
Sam's Struggle
Sam has been battling his mental wellbeing after discovering that teacher Megan Walsh had been grooming and conducting an inappropriate relationship with his schoolmate Will Driscoll. The pair gaslit Sam and made his life a misery when he threatened to expose their disturbing affair. Matters came to a head in Friday's episode when he encountered two versions of Roy, ultimately attacking the café owner before fleeing and being discovered by a worried Carla Connor, who immediately recognized the telltale signs of psychosis.
Jude Riordan's Response
Following the hard-hitting scenes, Jude, 15, took to Instagram to share a behind-the-scenes glimpse. He wrote: "It's been a huge privilege to take on a very tough storyline and to be trusted to do it well. Thank you for all the messages throughout this story so far. It's not over yet .... BIG shout to my Corrie family, especially Ben, Jane, Claire and David who have helped and supported me lots. The best crew as always. Great writers. It's been really important to show that young people can be in mental health crisis and it's a reality for lots."
Support from Co-stars
Georgia Taylor, who plays Toyah Battersby, commented: "Endlessly proud of you, buddy" with a heart emoji. Cait Fitton, who portrays Lauren Bolton, wrote: "You've been utterly amazing @justjude7! !" with clapping emojis.
Fan Reactions
One fan wrote: "Honestly.. been months and months since I've cried and your acting is phenomenal, mate. Really made me tear up!" Another viewer commented: "You're smashing it Jude and doing St Helens proud xx." A third remarked: "You've been excellent, my mate." One more fan added: "Fantastic acting but heartbreaking at the same time to know people actually go through it on a daily basis." Elsewhere, another fan posted: "Honestly I cried my eyes out watching this you're acting is incredible you should be so proud what an amazing young man."
Coronation Street airs weeknights at 8:30pm on ITV and ITV X.
