“Deep down, Mel loves Nathan…”

We catch up with actress Sonia Ibrahim, who plays Mel, to find out why her alter ego is so happy to do Nathan’s dirty work…

How does Mel feel about Nathan focusing on Bethany?

Mel hopes Nathan will come back to her. She is petrified of him, but she’s also jealous of Bethany – because deep down, Mel does loves Nathan.

What is Mel’s relationship with Nathan like?

Mel is actually being just as manipulated as Bethany is. She has been abused by Nathan, so she knows what he is capable of and how scary he is. But in her eyes, he did save her from a horrible upbringing – even though he didn’t make her life any better with the things that he did to her.

Have you had to do any research into this plot?

I went to the Escape Charity launch, where I listened to stories from survivors – and it broke my heart. But it struck me how strong they were to come out the other side.

Will we see a more vulnerable side to Mel further down the line?

We will definitely see more of a human and emotional side to Mel as Bethany’s story progresses. It’s not right and Mel knows it – but she’s torn. Nathan tells her that if Bethany isn’t there, she will be taking her place – and Mel doesn’t want to go back to that.

Are you starting to be recognised by fans?

Yes. The reactions to Mel have changed as time has gone on, and people have seen that she has been brainwashed just as much as Bethany. Hopefully people will see that she’s not doing this because she is evil – Mel is a victim, too.

You’ve been caught up in this one plot – so who else on Corrie would you like to work with?

It would be fun to work with Jack P Shepherd [aka David], because it seems like he’s really funny! I’d also love to work with Kate Ford because she’s such a good actress – and I love her character, Tracy!