Corrie cast dons purple for domestic abuse awareness

A soap opera cast has donned a purple-themed wardrobe in an episode dedicated to raising awareness of domestic violence.

Coronation Street is currently showing a domestic abuse storyline between, victim Todd Grimshaw, played by Gareth Pierce, and abusive partner Theo Silverton, played by James Cartwright.

As he reported Silverton to police after a "horrific beating" on Wednesday's episode, Todd and other characters wore the colour purple – which is a universal symbol of domestic abuse awareness - representing peace, courage, survival, and dedication to ending abuse.

Actor Pierce said the wardrobe choice had been a "powerful reminder" of how widespread stories like Todd's are.

Coronation Street producer Kate Brooks said she wanted Wednesday's episode to illustrate that Todd was "one of many".

"His story, whilst harrowing, sadly reflects the lives of so many other people who are entrenched in abusive relationships," Brooks said.

"Ultimately this is a story about surviving – and people gaining strength and support from others who've been through similar situations."

Describing the episode as "powerful and unflinching", Brooks added: "The episode also offers a glimpse into how there can be hope in the darkest of times.

Pierce said his character's storyline had been a "tough watch at times" - but said it was important to highlight the issue on TV.

"So many domestic abuse survivors have shared their experiences with us throughout this storyline," he said.

"I haven't seen the finished episode yet, but the moment Todd first locks eyes with another survivor in the police station was particularly raw and cathartic to film."

The Coronation Street research team worked with Galop, an LGBTQ+ anti-abuse charity, to ensure the story was told accurately and sensitively.

Ben Kernighan, Galop's co-chief executive said storylines like this one played an important role in shining a light on LGBT+ experiences of domestic abuse.

"It can be really hard for people who've experienced abuse and violence to feel safe coming forward for help," Kernighan said. "For LGBT+ people, there's often an added fear that services won't take their experiences seriously or that they will have to explain, defend, or justify parts of their identity or relationship."

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