Jude Riordan and Beth Nixon share real-life friendship amid on-screen feud
Coronation Street star Jude Riordan has paid tribute to co-star Beth Nixon ahead of her final scenes on the ITV soap, assuring viewers that the pair actually get along in real life. Riordan, who plays Sam Blakeman, shared a picture with Nixon, who portrays the abusive teacher Megan Walsh. The image was posted to Instagram with the caption 'FRIENDS REALLY,' alongside a heartfelt message.
Megan's storyline reaches a climax
Megan has tormented Sam for months after he discovered she was abusing Weatherfield High student Will Driscoll (Lucas Hodgson-Wale). Sam quickly worked out what was happening after overhearing a conversation between Megan and Will, prompting him to investigate. Fearing exposure, Megan encouraged Will to befriend Sam while she took a confrontational approach, undermining Sam's confidence, removing his coursework from Daniel Osbourne's (Rob Mallard) marking pile, and planting doubts about his abilities as a student.
Sam's ordeal and Megan's downfall
The ordeal took its toll on Sam, who took drugs and collapsed. While recovering in hospital, he told Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) about Megan's abuse of Will, leading to her arrest and eventual downfall. This week, Megan stands trial for her actions, with the verdict set to be revealed soon.
Tribute from co-star
Riordan expressed his enjoyment working with Nixon, stating: 'I really enjoyed working with Beth. Megan really tormented Sam and pushed him right over the edge. But shows what a great baddie she is!' Nixon responded warmly: 'Aww Jude, you can see the tears in my eyes here? I loved working with you and you are smashing this storyline, the [Inside Soap] nomination is so so well deserved you are a star. Hear hear!'
Viewing details
Coronation Street airs Mondays to Fridays at 8pm on ITV1, or streams from 7am on ITVX and YouTube.
