ITV
Many of the most recognisable stars – responsible for the gentle humour which made the soap a favourite – are approaching retirement.
A host of new young actors are keen to tackle grittier plots. Ofcom is assessing if Corrie broke “appropriate scheduling” rules by screening graphic scenes during Pat Phelan’s murder rampage before the 9pm watershed.
The TV watchdog received 622 complaints over the plotline.
Long-serving characters fear the soap will get more violent in the battle for viewing figures.
“The future looks bleak in every way”
Former star
One former star said: “The future looks bleak in every way. Many of the young ones love the gritty stuff. I suppose they can see awards.
“But it wasn’t violence that made it great. You can get that anywhere on TV now.
“There is a sense the show is at a crossroads. Many in the cast fear it could go too dark.”
Malcolm Hebden, 78, who plays Norris Cole, is the latest to take a back seat on extended leave.
ITV
Stalwart Eileen Derbyshire – Emily Bishop – has not been seen for more than a year.
And longest-serving cast member William Roache (Ken Barlow) is now 85.
Last night a Manchester showbiz agent said: “Millions grew up with the gentle humour of the 70s and 80s – the rows and fights of Ken and Deirdre and Jack and Vera.
Corrie's Lucy Fallon
The loveable nature of Betty, Norris and Emily were all big features too.
“Now it is all about murder and mayhem and for many it is getting too violent.”
ITV chiefs say the “programme is always careful to limit the violence shown to a minimum to tell the story”.