Coming up in CORRIE!

We reveal some of the big stories headed Weatherfield way in 2021...

- ALISON SLADE

WHAT NEXT FOR PETER & CARLA?

Peter wants to kick the booze – but is it too late to turn things around?

Booze has long been the demon on Peter Barlow’s shoulder, and the cabbie’s recent assault, combined with his discovery that his partner Carla slept with Adam, prompted a spectacular fall from the wagon and a stubborn, self destructive belief that he’s not worthy – or even capable – of being helped.

As Peter continues to entertain the idea of a slow descent into an early grave, Ken is hugely relieved by his son’s confession this week that he actually wants to live. But don’t let this ‘breakthrough’ fool you.

Our Corrie source tells us that while Peter’s mind is willing, his body may not be able. He manages to stay off alcohol in the coming months, but his health seriously deteriorates, leaving his and Carla’s future hanging by a thread.

‘Peter’s been told many times, “Your next drink could kill you,” and we felt that we had to make good on that to a degree, and go right to the end with what would happen to Peter’s body if he hit the bottle again – which, obviously, he has,’ says Coronation Street boss Iain MacLeod.

‘Having spoken to Chris Gascoyne, who plays Peter, he’s keen to really immerse himself in Peter’s physical deterioration. So we’ve had discussions with doctors and nutritionists about how we can make it as visually shocking and realistic as possible.’

It’s going to be a rocky road ahead as Peter stares death in the face, but we’re promised that it will seal Peter and Carla’s reputation as Weatherfield’s answer to Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor.