Coronation Street is set to introduce a new member of the iconic Webster family, ahead of a much-loved character's rumoured departure. In November, it was reported that Debbie Webster, played by Sue Devaney, is due to be written out of the soap.
Reports suggest that Sue will deliver a heart-wrenching performance as her character receives a dementia diagnosis in the near future. This tragic storyline, which is expected to begin in 2025, will be "long-running" and "promises to be heartbreaking".
Additionally, it has been confirmed that Debbie's brother Kevin, portrayed by Michael Le Vell, will be diagnosed with testicular cancer in the New Year. Now, it has been announced that a fresh face from the Webster family will be making their way onto the cobbles.
In a chat with Corrie's new boss Kate Brooks, she revealed that the soap is introducing Kevin and Debbie's brother, Carl. "We've got Carl Webster coming into the show. He's Kevin and Debbie's brother," Kate informed Plymouth Live.
She continued: "We've never met him before, but he's coming in to build up that Webster clan. We've got big stories coming up for Kevin and Debbie.", reports Plymouth Live.
Carl has been mentioned sporadically over the years. He is the son of Bill Webster (Peter Armitage) and Elaine Webster (Judy Gridley) - but has never appeared on the cobbles as he resides in Germany, where he was born.
Kevin is set to face a life-altering year in 2025 following a cancer diagnosis, Kate has disclosed. "As we go into the new year, Kevin will discover he has got testicular cancer which causes a massive strain on his relationship." she stated.
She noted the strength of Abi's character, dealing with her own challenges concurrently: "Abi is a really strong character, but she is going through her own turmoil at the same time. We want to tell this really truthfully, we've been working closely with MacMillan to make sure that we tell the story right."
Discussing Kevin's approach to his condition, Kate acknowledged: "It was really important actually, that we don't show Kevin being embarrassed to talk to his friends about it. And he's quite open about it which I felt was refreshing."
Nonetheless, it appears Kevin's romance with Abi is on shaky ground, with Kate revealing: "But ultimately it's about his relationship with Abi and that is going to truly tested."
Coronation Street is on ITV at 8pm Monday, Wednesday and Friday and available to stream from 7am on ITVX
