Coronation Street viewers distraught over Rita’s brain tumour storyline
CORONATION Street viewers were left reeling when soap legend Rita Tanner collapsed with a deadly brain tumour.
The storyline was introduced at the end of Monday night’s dramatic episode and left many viewers in tears.
In recent weeks, the character – played by Barbara Knox since 1972 – has become increasingly confused, with fears she may have dementia.
But when Rita collapsed at foster daughter Jenny Bradley’s hen party last Friday night, she was immediately rushed to hospital.
And on Monday viewers saw doctors break the news that Rita’s MRI scan results showed a tumour on her brain’s frontal lobe.
Upset fans turned to Twitter after the shock diagnosis, with one tweeting: “I’m crying. Rita’s got a brain tumour.”
Another said: “Rita hasn’t got dementia – it’s a tumour. Please don’t let Rita die.”
Speaking about the drama that lies ahead, the 83-year-old actress said: “Until I started working on this storyline I had no idea a brain tumour could cause someone to act in the way Rita has been.
“It can’t just be me who has been surprised by how it affected Rita. Clearly not enough is known about brain tumours and their symptoms. It is a frightening disease and my thoughts are with everyone affected by a brain tumour.”
Speaking about her experiences when told at first about the plot, the star added: “I was immediately determined to ensure we got every aspect of the portrayal of such a devastating illness correct.
“As an actress I am mindful there are people going through this in real life – it’s vital we do their stories justice.”
UK charity Brain Tumour Research has been consulting with ITV producers to ensure medical accuracy.
Sue Farrington Smith, the charity’s chief executive, said: “Some 16,000 people are diagnosed with a brain tumour in the UK each year.
“So we were pleased Coronation Street approached us to advise.
“This disease is indiscriminate – brain tumours can affect anyone, at any age, while symptoms can vary significantly.
“Patients can experience confusion, like Rita, mood swings and depression.”