Coronation Street fans demand long-standing character is axed to ‘save’ Gail Platt
CORONATION Street fans have demanded soap bosses to axe long-standing Platt family member to save Gail from being a ‘background character.’
Gail – played be Helen Worth – was been suspicious of her brother and serial killer Stephen Reid and will be part of the character’s demise.
She also played a part in Sarah Platt’s affair with Damon Hay.
In recent weeks, Gail has been seen offering to babysit her grandchildren Max Turner, Lily Platt, Sam Robertson and Harry Platt.
Other members of the Platt family such as Nick Tilsley, David Platt, Sarah Barlow and Shona Platt have taken the spotlight with their own storylines.
But Corrie fans think it’s time for Gail to be back in the forefront of a new major storyline.
Taking to a fan forum, one viewer said: “Why has Gail become a background character? She’s becoming almost deadwood, under this current CS team.
“Helen Worth is a brilliant actress, and Gail really shines when given a strong storyline.
“I feel like she barely goes out of the house anymore. Just over-involves herself in her kids mini dramas.”
Another fan added: “I would like to see her maybe have a fling with a younger man (David’s age, perhaps).
“Also, rekindle the friendship with Sally and have some storylines with them.”
A third suggested: “David being gone would be good for Gail as “Demon David” is a key part of why Gail’s modern personality is the way that it is.
“It would also force her to step up as the head of the Platt Household.
“Bring David back when Lily is in her late teens and you instantly have drama from him being estranged from her for years and that instantly creates a fresh new direction for the character.”
Helen is the second longest-running star on the show and about to mark her 50th anniversary on the cobbles.
She started on the show back in 1974 and her contributions to the soap earned her an MBE in the Queen’s Honours last year.
Only William Roache has been on the show longer, playing Ken Barlow since it was first broadcast on 9 December 1960.
Since her first appearance, Gail has been in-and-out of six marriages – each one more disastrous than the last with every husband either dying or cheating – or being a serial killer.
Her arrival on the soap marked a dynasty, with the Platt family’s place on the Street becoming a fundamental part of the show.
Gail has most recently moved into a more comedic role on the Square, with her long-running feud with Eileen Grimshaw, her love of dancing in her kitchen, and her quirky comments often proving to be a highlight for viewers.
Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.