The popular British soap opera Coronation Street has sparked controversy with its recent storyline involving character Ryan Connor and his acid attack. The show has faced criticism from viewers and acid attack survivors alike, who argue that the depiction of such a traumatic event is insensitive and could cause distress to those who have experienced similar circumstances. In this article, we will explore the details of the storyline and the response it has received, while considering the wider issue of how television shows tackle sensitive subject matter.
Coronation Street, a popular British soap opera, has received 72 complaints to the Office of Communications (Ofcom) following its recent devastating acid attack scenes. The scenes depicted Daisy’s stalker Justin planning to throw acid at her on her wedding day. However, Ryan, Daisy’s chauffeur for the day, intervened and took the full force of the attack which resulted in serious burns and injuries.
Many viewers complained about the upsetting nature of the scene, with some taking to social media to describe it as too dark for a family soap opera. One viewer on Twitter wrote, “Just watched the acid attack on #Corrie. Very chilling. To be honest, I don’t know why soaps have to go that dark.” Another said, “A family soap showing an acid attack is beyond desperate.” However, there were others who praised the show for tackling a tough issue, with one fan writing on Twitter, “That was the most intense episode of #Corrie I’ve seen in a long time… well done to @itvcorrie and the whole team.”
The soap, which has been running since 1960, has been working closely with The Katie Piper Foundation and Acid Survivors Trust International (ASTI) to ensure the sensitive treatment of this storyline. These charities offer help and support to real-life survivors of acid attacks.
Iain MacLeod, Coronation Street’s producer, has previously explained why the show decided to feature an acid attack storyline: “We were keen to show the long-term reality for people who are subjected to this kind of attack. It is something we might often read about in the papers but perhaps don’t fully understand, in terms of the depth and variety of effects it can have. As well as the medical impacts, we explore the social fallout of having your appearance profoundly changed, both in terms of your own ability to process that and how the wider world reacts to you.”
While some may feel that such storylines may be too upsetting for television shows, it is important to remember that they can have a positive impact on society. Highlighting these issues can help raise awareness and encourage discussion about important topics. It can also help to provide resources and support for those that may be affected by these issues in their daily lives.
It is commendable that Coronation Street is tackling this challenging issue with sensitivity, highlighting the long-term effects of an acid attack on victims, and providing resources for those affected. By bringing such issues to a wider audience, Coronation Street is helping to break the stigma around these topics and helping to promote empathy and understanding.
As Coronation Street continues to tackle sensitive and controversial issues in its storylines, it is no surprise that there will always be varying opinions and responses. While some viewers are applauding the soap for bringing awareness to real-life issues, others have been left offended and outraged. Regardless of which side you take, it is important to remember that these are fictional stories being told in order to educate and inform, even if they are difficult to watch. As the show continues to push boundaries and address important topics, it is up to us as viewers to observe and react with sensitivity and understanding.
