Catherine Tyldesley says Corrie grooming storyline cuts deep and shares parenting fears

Catherine Tyldesley says the grooming storyline on Coronation Street has cut deep for the cast and that its themes strike close to home for parents. The actress, 42, returned to the ITV soap last month to reprise Eva Price and has already become embroiled in several hard-hitting plots that tackle safeguarding, online risk, and family life.

In a new interview, Tyldesley discussed the on-screen arc in which Will, 16, the son of her character’s partner, is being groomed by a female sports coach. She said the material has been emotionally taxing for everyone involved and stressed its relevance for viewers who may be navigating similar concerns with young people.

Her comments came as she opened up about parenting pressures and the importance of safeguarding children, including her own. She said that from Alfie’s age onward, trust in adults—whether a teacher or another figure in a child’s life—becomes a delicate balance, and parents must help guide conversations about boundaries and safety.

Tyldesley also described using contemporary television as a training tool for her children. She cited Adolescence, a critically acclaimed series about misogyny and online radicalization, and Swiped: The School That Banned Smartphones, a Channel 4 documentary, as sources that informed her understanding of how technology and social dynamics can affect young people. She noted that watching these programs helped her discuss real-world risks with Alfie, who has a smartphone but is subject to guardrails, including a tracking device and limits on social media use.

The actor said Will’s grooming storyline could resonate with a broad audience and that many young viewers may recognize the danger signs portrayed on screen. She emphasized the responsibility of soap operas to reflect serious issues and to prompt conversations among families about consent, boundaries, and safeguarding.

Beyond the current plot, Tyldesley spoke about broader themes she believes soaps should address, including body image and the pressure to achieve a certain look. She recalled feeling pressure in her younger years and said she now aims to model a healthier relationship with her body for her two children, Alfie and Iris. She stressed the importance of teaching that nutrition and well-being come first, even in the context of a busy acting life.

In addition to her return to Coronation Street, Tyldesley reflected on Eva Price’s history on the show. The character’s past storylines included dramatic twists and a controversial fake pregnancy, which ultimately led to Eva leaving the cobbles. Tyldesley noted that she has no qualms about revisiting Eva in future episodes, adding that she would never say never to another dramatic turn if the right opportunity arose. The actor has kept busy with other projects in recent years, including a run in Scarborough and a period of stage work, and she later reunited with X Factor winner Shayne Ward on The Good Ship Murder series before its renewal.

She also touched on the balance between on-screen storytelling and personal boundaries. Tyldesley said she would consider sharing more of her real-life parenting experiences in interview contexts but remains focused on keeping work and family life distinct while also using her platform to advocate for safeguarding and mental health awareness. As Corrie viewers anticipate Eva’s evolving storyline, Tyldesley’s comments underscore the enduring role soaps play in spotlighting timely social issues while reflecting the complexities of modern family life.