‘Coronation Street’ bosses are reportedly going to have make some significant changes to their Christmas episodes, following the sacking of Marc Anwar.
Marc, who played Sharif Nazir, had his contract terminated with immediate effect on Saturday (24 September) after sending a string of “entirely unacceptable, racially offensive tweets”, but the move will cause problems for show bosses, as Marc was set to have a huge role in this year’s Christmas storylines.
The big reveal of his character’s affair with Sonia is set to dominate the festive episodes, and Digital Spy have now revealed the changes bosses will have to make.
Thankfully, they’ve already filmed the reveal itself and the shows were set to focus on the aftermath, so there will now be some “tweaks and changes” to the episodes.
Bosses will also have to pull together a suitable off-screen exit for Nazir.
Meanwhile, Marc has apologised for Friday’s incident in a YouTube video, in which he says: “I’d like to offer my sincerest apologies to anyone I may have offended with my tweets on Friday evening – and especially people from India.
“This was never my intention. The language was unacceptable. I feel I’ve let a lot of people down – my family, my friends, and my former colleagues.
“This, I again very sincerely apologise for.”
The Nazirs won’t be the only ones at the centre of the action this Christmas, with Toyah Battersby’s return also set to have a big impact on the street.
She’ll be back in Weatherfield to spend time with her sister Leanne, who is currently expecting Steve McDonald’s baby, following a one-night stand.
Catch up on all the latest soap news and spoilers here.