The actress behind Coronation Street's most reviled new character, Megan, has been revealed to be 25 years old, as viewers express disgust over a harrowing grooming storyline. Beth Nixon, who joined the ITV soap this year, plays the athletics coach who has been secretly grooming 15-year-old Will Driscoll, played by Lucas Hodgson-Wale.
A Sinister Plot Unfolds on the Cobbles
Megan was introduced as the coach of teenager Will Driscoll, who moved to Weatherfield with his father Ben, played by Aaron McCusker, his grandmother Maggie, and his dad's girlfriend, Eva Price. Unbeknownst to Will's family, Megan had been grooming the schoolboy for months before the relocation.
The plot took a darker turn when Megan herself moved to the street, securing a job at Weatherfield High School. To further manipulate the situation and conceal her true motives, she began a romance with fellow teacher Daniel Osbourne, portrayed by Rob Mallard. This relationship sparked intense jealousy in Will.
The storyline reached a critical point last week when, after Will celebrated his 16th birthday, Megan slept with him. The encounter was nearly discovered by Will's father Ben and his brother Ollie. Shockingly, Megan then spent Christmas Day with Will and his unsuspecting family at the Rovers Return.
Behind the Character: Actress Beth Nixon
For actress Beth Nixon, the role of Megan marks her first television part since graduating from college four years ago. The newcomer, who celebrated her 25th birthday in July, has thrown herself into portraying the complex villain.
Speaking about the role to Metro, Nixon described Megan as "very calculated." She explained, "Everything she does is for a reason, but she’s very good at hiding that. She’s very insecure, but again, she hides it. So she’s very confident and charismatic on the outside."
Nixon emphasised her approach to finding the character's humanity, stating, "She’s worming her way into this family; she’s almost like a parasite. But as an actor, I obviously need to find that humanity in her and make her a rounded character. She’s not a one-dimensional character. She’s not just this evil person."
Fan Reaction and Storyline Impact
The disturbing narrative has provoked a strong reaction from the Coronation Street audience, with many expressing how 'sickened' they are by the grooming twist. The plot highlights the insidious nature of predatory behaviour, as Megan expertly manipulates both Will and the adults around her.
The storyline is ongoing, with Will's family remaining oblivious to the abuse happening under their noses. The tension is set to escalate as Megan's dual life as a teacher and groomer becomes increasingly difficult to maintain.
Coronation Street airs on ITV1 and ITVX every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at 8pm. For support and information regarding issues raised in this storyline, you can visit the Barnardo's website.
