Coronation Street cast ‘grieving’ co-star’s exit after ‘devastating’ storyline | TV & Radio | Showbiz & TV
Since Paul (played by Peter Ash) was diagnosed with the life-shortening condition, viewers have watched him break down as his partner Billy Mayhew (Daniel Brocklebank) has imagined their future together.
With the condition cutting down life expectancy increasingly, viewers know that Paul’s time in Weatherfield is limited.
As Coronation Street bosses have confirmed the storyline will lead to his death, fans of the ITV soap are set to see his health deteriorate drastically in the near future.
Speaking about the impending exit, actor Daniel Brocklebank told Express.co.uk the cast will be sad to see Peter Ash leave.
He said: “It’s funny, you know, even though you know, of course we know it’s not real.
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“But also knowing that Pete’s time in the show is now coming to an end, there is a deep sadness in that.
“I mean, Jane Hazelgrove who obviously plays Bernie, Jane can’t keep her bl**dy eyes dry at all.
“We’re grieving Peter leaving rather than Peter thankfully, not dying. The emotions are genuine.”
Official spoilers for the soap reveal that Billy decides to attend Paul’s appointment with the MND specialist to see whether or not he’s suitable for Tofersen treatment, which could slow his progression.
Despite Billy now knowing about Paul’s MND, he’s yet to tell his twin sister Gemma Winter (Dolly-Rose Campbell).
With Gemma’s wedding on the horizon, it’s clear he doesn’t want to distract from her big day, although actress Dolly confessed that when she learns the truth, she’ll be broken.
She told Express.co.uk: “She’s going to be completely devastated because Paul’s been there her whole life, they’re not just brother and sister, they’re twins.
“So they’ve been together their whole lives. I think her approach would be to stay strong.
“They are a bit of an out-there family, but at the heart, they do love each other.
“They stick together and they want what’s best for each other. So I’m sure they will look after him in their own way absolutely.”
Coronation Street continues Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on ITV from 8pm.
