Coronation Street viewers have watched Sam Blakeman spiral into a devastating mental health crisis in recent weeks — and tonight’s episode delivered the storyline’s darkest twist yet.
The Weatherfield lad, played by Jude Riordan, has been deeply affected since discovering Megan Walsh’s disturbing secret grooming of Will Driscoll. Sam was the first person to suspect the pair of being involved in an inappropriate relationship, but speaking out came at a huge personal cost.
In an effort to silence him, Megan deliberately targeted Sam’s academic future and shattered his confidence, worsening his mental health in the process. The situation became so overwhelming that Sam later resorted to taking unprescribed Ritalin in a desperate attempt to cope academically and emotionally.
The medication misuse previously led to Sam collapsing on the cobbles, but recent scenes have made it increasingly clear that his struggles are far from over. Although Megan now appears close to finally facing the consequences for her behaviour, Sam continues to live in fear — particularly because of ongoing encounters with Will.
Recent episodes have shown Sam attempting to confront the teenager, only for Will to appear confused by his increasingly panicked reactions. Monday’s (11 May) trip to the cobbles pushed things even further when Sam ran into Will again and, terrified, accidentally dropped and smashed his telescope during the confrontation.
This Wednesday (13 May), Sam confronted a vengeful Will in an alleyway and attempted to physically defend himself. However, viewers soon saw that Sam had been alone all along. The shocking moment confirmed Sam has been experiencing visual and auditory hallucinations.
