Coronation Street favourite Ben Driscoll is set for a terrifying health scare that will see him rushed to hospital in upcoming episodes, as relentless family pressure finally takes its toll.
A Family in Turmoil
The seemingly affable landlord of the Rovers Return, played by actor Aaron McCusker, has faced a torrent of drama since he moved into the iconic Weatherfield pub with his partner Eva (Catherine Tyldesley) and family in October. The stress is now manifesting physically. Much of the recent turmoil stems from his younger son, Will (Lucas Hodgson-Wale), who went missing during the family's move from Hull. Unbeknownst to Ben, Will is trapped in a coercive and illicit relationship with his sports coach, Megan (Beth Nixon), a situation the family has inadvertently helped continue by paying her for coaching.
Simultaneously, Ben is caught in a vicious crossfire between his domineering mother, Maggie (Pauline McLynn), and Eva. The tension exploded over Christmas when Maggie publicly shamed Eva for a past terminated pregnancy, leading to a temporary rift. The conflict reaches a new peak when Eva's sister, Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson), offers Maggie £160,000 for her share of the pub business, a move Eva claims to know nothing about.
The Breaking Point
As arguments between Eva and Maggie rage for days, a desperate and torn Ben vainly attempts to keep the peace. Seeking a brief respite, he steps away to handle a beer delivery. It is then that he is struck by a searing pain in his chest. Returning to the pub, the chaos continues as Leanne's bag strap trips Maggie, causing her to fall. In the midst of this mayhem, Eva notices Ben looks pale and sweaty. He confesses to having heart palpitations.
Fearing for his health, Eva immediately calls an ambulance. As they head to the hospital, Ben is in no state to withstand any further shocks. However, a monumental one is already waiting there. Unbeknownst to Ben and Eva, Will and Megan are already at the same hospital after Megan felt unwell. With viewers having previously spotted a pregnancy test in her bag, a life-altering revelation seems imminent.
A Perfect Storm of Secrets
This potential pregnancy news is the last thing Ben needs as he fights for his health. His world is already crumbling under the weight of secrets he is unaware of: his son's abusive relationship and the escalating business war between his mother and partner. The hospitalisation on January 13, 2026, sets the stage for these explosive storylines to potentially collide, threatening to destroy the Driscoll family for good.
The coming episodes promise high drama as Ben's physical vulnerability meets the emotional time bombs ticking away in his life. Will the truth about Will and Megan come out at the worst possible moment? And can Ben's relationship with Eva survive the ongoing siege from his mother? Coronation Street is delivering a powerful storyline about stress, family conflict, and the devastating consequences of hidden abuse.
