Chris Harper Interview: "It's been life-changing"

Coronation Street's Chris Harper, who plays evil Nathan Curtis, has been interviewed by OK magazine. He's pictured above with his wife, Emily Bowker.

Talking about Coronation Street's grooming storyline, he was asked if he had always keen to tackle the big storyline.

He said:  "Yes. Emily spotted very early on what a big storyline it could be, and Corrie were very keen to do it right. I think they underestimated how welcomed it was going to be by charities and survivor committees. It’s been more successful than they could have ever hoped.

"As an actor you love a manipulative character, but it’s great to be part of something that’s highlighting what some people go through. I did feel a big responsibility taking on a role like this, especially at the beginning. It’s been life-changing and the most important storyline I’ve ever done."

"Just the other day I was standing on a platform and one of the train guards shared his story of abuse with me. I’ve had lumps in my throat over the response. Some people are just so excited because they love Corrie, and then other people are on the verge of tears because they’re saying it’s happened to them or they’re worried about their niece or family member. I wasn’t ready for that. It’s been overwhelming. It’s incredible to have three or four people a day come up to you and saw how important what you’re doing is."

Read our blogger Ruth's post: In Defence of the Grooming Story

Read more Corrie news, interviews and spoilers here

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