Coronation Street's Max Turner is to be groomed by extremists in a new storyline.
The ITV soap has tackled some huge topics over the years, but they will be looking at a storyline, which documents the horrifying grooming of a vulnerable teenager as Max is befriended by extremists. The hard hitting storyline will see Max - played by Paddy Bever - targeted by the extremists as they try and recruit him.
His actions will see him put his own life at risk as well as that of his friends and family. On Monday's episode next week, Griff - played by Michael Condron - turns his attention to Max, who has been struggling with bullies after losing his place at Weatherfield High.
As Griff wins Max's trust, by standing up to the bullies, he invites the teenager to a Halloween party and tells his gang Max could become useful. As things continue to get worse, Max seems more disconnected from his family and the gang use Max's video skills and computer work in order to spread their horrifying racist propaganda online.
Coronation Street Producer, Iain MacLeod, said: "Overall, Max's story is one about the grooming of a vulnerable teenager at a point where he's feeling most alienated and disenfranchised. The story will encompass the 'traditional' recruitment techniques of extremists groups, and we'll see Max befriended in person by older, mentor-like figures that will give him a sense of loyalty and brotherhood.
"Then, later in the story, we will explore a very 21st Century problem: teenagers self-radicalising through watching extreme content online. In the end, we wanted this to be a story about communication within families - what are the right and wrong ways to talk to younger family members who are gravitating towards extreme views? For the conclusion of the story, David's misjudged attempts to deal with Max will drive the narrative to a shocking and thought-provoking climax."
Counter Terrorism Policing’s Senior National Coordinator, Tim Jacques, shared: "Coronation Street has a long history of raising awareness of challenging issues that sit at the heart of communities across the UK.
"Sadly, the terrorist threat remains one of those very real concerns. Our casework shows that children and young people are vulnerable to radicalisation and are increasingly being drawn into toxic ideologies through online spaces and platforms."
Tim added: "We hope Max’s story will help to highlight why it’s so important to get support or advice if you’re worried someone you love is taking a dangerous path. It really doesn’t have to be that way."
*Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV.
