Can Leanne & Nick make up?
CORRIE’S JANE DANSON EXPLAINS WHY SHE HOPES HER ON-SCREEN LOVE IS GOING TO LAST…
It’s fair to say that Leanne Battersby has had a terrible year. She’s been knocked over and nearly died, she’s been two-timed with her sister as the other woman, and she’s bedded Steve Mcdonald – again! We’re exhausted just listing her dramas, so it’s no wonder that Leanne is looking for some peace. But as we catch up with her real-life alter ego Jane Danson, does she think Leanne will find it by reuniting with childhood sweetheart, Nick Tilsley?
“Ultimately, Nick is the love of Leanne’s life,” shares the star. “It’s important to show that some people stay together, because some do. It would be nice if they could build on that – as something pulls Nick and Leanne back together every time.”
This week, Nick is still begging Leanne for another chance now that the truth about his hidden marriage has been revealed. Sick of all the fighting, Shona locks Leanne in the café with Nick, so they are forced to sort out their differences. Surely, the pair will be in there forever!
“The spark between them has been quietly flickering away,” teases Jane. “Leanne has been trying to suppress it, because she’s scared of getting hurt again. When she finds out that Nick has offered to pay off Elsa in exchange for keeping Leanne’s name out of their divorce, she’s pleased. I think that shows commitment on Nick’s part. He’s ready to be with Leanne and sacrifice
his financial situation and his business to do so. I think that he’s putting his neck on the line a bit for her. It shows more commitment than when he left last time.”
If they can rekindle things, it won’t be the first time they’ve tried to make a go of it – which reminds Jane of another famous Weatherfield couple.
“They are like Ken and Deirdre, because they keep breaking up and getting back together,” laughs Jane. “Nick knows Leanne, he’s seen her at her worst and at her best. I think that’s a sign of true love. Since the car accident, Leanne has been putting on a bit of a brave face, to show everyone that she is okay. But now, I think she’s realised that she is quite vulnerable. She needs that help, love and support because she’s struggling a little bit, and she feels safe with Nick.”
The danger of this cycle of make-ups and breakups is that viewers might wonder if Leanne should cut Nick loose forever. After all, he has let her down time and again. “I think each time you split, the relationship dilutes a little bit more,” muses Jane. “Leanne and Nick have been on and off for such a long time that hopefully they can build their relationship and raise Oliver together. I would like to see Leanne happy!” Amen to that, Jane. We’re guessing
Corrie has more drama in store as Nick settles back into life in Weatherfield. What does it feel like for Jane to have all that history, and to have been in the show for almost two decades?
“I feel like one of the old ones now!” she chuckles. “I love it, and I feel really lucky. It sounds soppy to say, but it is a lovely place to work, and it’s gorgeous to have Ben Price back as Nick – we’re such good friends. It’s my dream job!”
Leanne is scared of getting hurt by Nick again…