Corrie actor Jamie Kenna has been praised for his message to those who are feeling lonely on Christmas Day. In a video posted on Instagram, the soap star spoke about how the festive period can “rub salt in the wound” to people who are going through hard times.
In the video he recalls to the "dark times" he once had and empathises with others who may in a similar position at this moment in time. He urges for people struggling to reach out to loved ones and speak about how they feel promising that they won't "Regret it".
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Kenna's video was met with an even more uplifting reaction from his followers with many taking to the comment to praise his message or share it's sentiments. One user said: "Well said Jamie. Christmas is a lonely time for many people. Merry Christmas."
While another wrote: "A great post. Thank you Jamie. Love at Christmas to you all xx."
In a video posted on Instagram, Kenna, who spent his Christmas Day with TV’s Louie Spence, said: “I love Christmas, Christmas is my favourite time of year.
“I’ve got two little kids and I can live vicariously through them and the whole Santa Claus thing and all that is just brilliant.
“But also I’ve had my dark times and I know how that feels and when you’re in one of those dark spots or if you know people that are in one of those dark spots, Christmas can be horrible.
“It can really rub salt in the wound when you’re supposed to be feeling festive and full of love and joyous spirit, but actually all you want to do is hide under a duvet.”
The actor, who last appeared on the cobbles in July this year and also played Billy Mills in Peaky Blinders, said: “Don’t feel you’re going to kill someone’s Christmas buzz by talking about it, don’t feel you’re going to ruin someone’s Christmas by picking up the phone – just do it and don’t be alone.
“If now is the time to reach out then do it, because I know this is the hardest time of the year because you feel very lonely and isolated and that you’re going to be the Grinch, but you’re not, you’re really not.
“Christmas is all about wrapping yourself around people you love and care for and that might be someone you haven’t spoken to for years and all of a sudden they pick up the phone.
“So just be aware of that, be aware of those around you and if you are feeling that way, reach out, please reach out and say something and you won’t regret it. I promise.”
He ended the touching message with “peace and love”.
During his time on Coronation Street, his character suffered a wedding day dumping after being jilted at his wedding reception by Fiz Stape, played by Jennie McAlpine.
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