“This is a story that needs telling”

Corrie’s Ryan talks about this powerful new plot…

Did you know from the start where this storyline was going?

The story was given to me at the first audition, but I wasn’t told who it was with until I’d accepted the role. It gives it a whole other level once you know who it is happening to.

Do you think it’s important that Corrie is tackling the issue of male rape?

Yes, there was a recent BBC documentary about male rape, and in the first three minutes one of the guys said, “You don’t see or hear about male rape, it’s totally under-represented”. I thought, ‘Wow, there we go – this is a story that needs telling’.

They are certainly powerful scenes. How were they to shoot?

When we did the rape scene, it was dark and quite difficult. But the aftermath is actually more difficult to play, having to think in this unhinged mind [of Josh’s]. Luckily Jack P Shepherd [David] and I gelled quickly, and the writing has been so good. Jack kindly invited me to his 30th birthday, so we’ve had the chance to hang out outside of work.

Have you worked closely with any charities who help men who’ve gone through this ordeal?

Yes, the Corrie team has worked with Survivors Manchester to make this storyline as realistic as possible. Josh’s motive is that he just wants to have sex, but in the aftermath, you see the similar traits he shares with other rapists.

Are you ready for any public abuse?

I’ll take it as it comes! It’s nice to know people are watching and invested.

What do your family think about you taking on such a heavy role?

My nan did ask, “You’re not playing a baddy, are you?”, and I was like, “Well...!”. But really, they’re just happy I have a role in Corrie.