Sam Blakeman, portrayed by Jude Riordan, has been admitted to hospital following a devastating psychosis breakdown in Coronation Street. Over the past few weeks, the young character has experienced visual and auditory hallucinations, primarily featuring Will Driscoll (Lucas Hodgson-Wale) and Roy Cropper (David Neilson). The hallucinated version of Roy has been giving Sam dangerous advice and convincing him that Will is out to harm him.
Sam's Terrifying Ordeal
In the latest episode, the imaginary Roy convinced Sam that Will would eventually kill him. Terrified, Sam locked himself in the cafe. His family only discovered his whereabouts when Will followed him and found Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson) approaching. Leanne, Nick Tilsley (Ben Price), and Toyah Battersby (Georgia Taylor) tried to persuade Sam to open the door, but inside, Sam was petrified, seeing two versions of Roy. One sat on a chair, telling Sam that everyone was playing a cruel trick, while the real Roy gently tried to help.
Sam fled the cafe and was later spotted by Carla Connor-Swain (Alison King) at the precinct. Carla, who has previously suffered a psychosis breakdown, recognized Sam's symptoms. She supported him, called Nick, and kept Sam calm until Nick and David Platt (Jack P Shepherd) arrived. When Sam tried to run, Nick caught him, and Sam broke down in his father's arms, terrified of what was happening in his mind.
Nick's Difficult Decision
Nick tried to explain that Sam's brain was playing tricks, but the severity of Sam's condition became clear when Sam poured his drink on the floor, believing it was poisoned, and claimed Nick had been tricked too. Nick promised Sam he wouldn't get him locked up and gently led him away, saying they were going home. However, after Sam woke from a nap in the car, he discovered Nick had driven him to the hospital. Nick hated lying but knew Sam needed help.
Leanne and Toyah were waiting at the hospital. Leanne coaxed Sam inside, though he remained convinced he was about to be locked up. Nick watched, devastated to see his son in such a dark place.
