June 14th 2023.
Jane Hazlegrove, who plays Bernie Winter in Coronation Street, has opened up about the personal impact the soap's motor neurone disease storyline has had on her. After dealing with the loss of her dad recently, the actress has found the storyline emotionally draining.
The storyline follows Bernie's son Paul, played by Peter Ash, who developed concerning symptoms after a car crash. After multiple tests, a doctor confirmed that he was showing signs of the illness. Paul initially refused to tell his family about his diagnosis, and instead tried to distract his mind by taking on dodgy and dangerous jobs for Damon. Eventually, he broke down in tears at Gemma's wedding and revealed the truth.
Unfortunately, as there is currently no cure for MND, this marks Peter Ash's exit from the show, as Paul will die at the end of the storyline. Jane discussed her sadness at the fact that Peter will be leaving the show, saying "I was very upset [when I found out about the storyline] as I adore Peter Ash so I was gutted as this meant he would be going". She also spoke about the close bond the cast have developed, saying "My Corrie family are a tight unit. I'm so lucky to work with them all".
The storyline has also had a personal impact on Daniel Brocklebank, who plays Billy Mayhew. Daniel's grandfather passed away from MND, so he too has found the storyline triggering. He revealed that when it came to filming the scene where Paul breaks down and tells his family about his diagnosis, he burst into tears. He explained that his mum found it hard to watch, as she had already gone through the same experience in his family.
It's clear from the cast's reactions that this storyline has had a powerful impact both on and off the Coronation Street set.
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