Past Project

Coronation Street

ITV Studios
presents

Executive Producer:
Kate Oats

Director:
Vicky Thomas

Writer:
Jonathan Harvey

Cast:
Jack P Shepherd (David Platt), Ryan Clayton (Josh Tucker), Helen Worth (Gail Platt), Julia Goulding (Shona Ramsey) & Billy Mayhew (Daniel Brocklebank)

Summary:
The 2018 Coronation Street storyline involving the grooming, drugging, and sexual assault of David Platt (played by Jack P. Shepherd) by newcomer Josh Tucker (Ryan Clayton) broke new ground for UK television by confronting the “culture of silence” surrounding male rape.

Rather than showing the physical act on screen, the production focused on the intense, claustrophobic psychological aftermath, tracking David’s profound trauma, isolation, and destructive coping mechanisms—including an explosion of unvented rage during a charity boxing match. The highly publicised storyline was praised for its stark realism and sensitivity, which triggered a massive surge in public awareness, directly leading to a 1,700% increase in national helpline calls from male survivors during its broadcast.

To ensure the portrayal was both accurate and safe for those involved, the production team partnered extensively with Duncan Craig OBE, the founder and Chief Executive Officer of the charity We Are Survivors (then known as Survivors Manchester). Craig served as an on-set storyline advisor, working closely with the writers, directors, and actors from the initial script stage through to filming. He provided vital, hands-on support to the cast, helping Jack P. Shepherd authentically capture the complex emotional paralysis and shame experienced by male survivors, while also supporting Ryan Clayton in navigating the dark psychology of a predatory groomer.

Beyond advising on the creative material, Craig’s continuous presence ensured a robust emotional safety net for the cast and crew, ensuring they were protected from the heavy psychological toll of filming such devastating and culturally vital scenes.

BBC News: click here