Fans were left bowled over as a new week on Coronation Street began on Monday night. The latest trip to Weatherfield took an emotional and thought-provoking turn as Audrey Roberts confessed that she had attempted to take her own life just a few weeks ago.
Corrie fans recently saw the soap icon in hospital receiving treatment after leaving a family gathering at the Bistro early. She was then seen lying about being at home to her concerned daughter Gail and also told a doctor that she had accidentally taken too many tablets.
She has since continued to insist that was the case to her own GP but Dr Gaddass has prescribed anti-depressants. And in scenes aired last night (August 16), Audrey, played by Sue Nicholls, found the time to speak out as enjoyed a catch-up with pals Ken Barlow, Rita Tanner, Roy Cropper and Claudia Colby over afternoon tea.
As she admitted to attempting to take her own life, her friends were left shocked and in typical soap timing, the restaurant of one of Debbie Webster's fancy hotels went dark and a waiter appeared with a cake singing happy birthday. Once the theatrics were over, Audrey explained that her 'nosy neighbour' had found her collapsed after taking sleeping tablets.
The group of soap stalwarts were visibly upset but Audrey's revelation and asked her what led to the suicide attempt and confessed their guilt at not spotting the signs that their friend was struggling. Audrey admitted that she had kept her feelings hidden as they discussed the problems that growing older can bring.
Later, after returning home from their afternoon tea, the group rallied to make a plan to look after her as Audrey was seen heading back to her old salon and made another big step by taking her prescribed medication for the first time.
Corrie viewers were full of praise over the scenes, to highlight the issues of mental health and the impact of loneliness in older people. But they were also left rejoicing about another element of the poignant scenes and issued a demand to the soap's bosses.
Caroline Denham wrote on Facebook: "I felt really emotional watching Corries tonight but it was lovely to see the older characters all together." Carol Mcnulty echoed: "Tonight's Corrie was brilliant, always is when the oldies get together. So funny and sad." Jan Sullivan said: "Great episode tonight, goes to show you need 'The Oldies'." Sharon Higgins shared: "What an amazing episode tonight.. The Oldies stole the show! Absolutely brilliant."
@pauldonnelley commented: "Yes we are not all obsessed with the young ones." @tracey.ll penned: "Loving this bit about time the more mature had a good chin wag outside the pub. About time @coronationstreet." @Sean__McLachlan begged: "Can we please have more episodes with the four golden oldies? They're brilliant! #Corrie." @Lealea2009 agreed: "More oldies, they're the best #Corrie."
Jacqui Morrissey, assistant director of research and Influencing at the Samaritans, previously said about the storyline: "The reasons for suicide are complex and very rarely down to one issue, which Audrey’s story has really captured. Our listening volunteers hear lots of mentions of loneliness and isolation, which can affect anyone at any time.
"As the last few years have been incredibly challenging, many Coronation Street fans may have found themselves struggling at times, so it’s crucial that people remember support is available, and feel able to reach out if they are finding life difficult. Talking about the problems you’re facing can make a massive difference, whether that’s with a close friend, family member or support line. Samaritans can be contacted 24/7, free, on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org or visit www.samaritans.org."
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