Actress Helen Flanagan has opened up about her experiences on the popular ITV soap, Coronation Street, specifically addressing the pressure she felt to wear revealing clothing at a young age. Flanagan, who played the character Rosie Webster, claims that at just 16 years old, the show expected her to “parade in knickers.”
Controversial Storylines and Experiences
Helen Flanagan gained fame for her role on Coronation Street, where her character, Rosie, found herself embroiled in some troubling storylines. One notable arc involved Rosie being groomed by her teacher, John Stape, played by actor Graeme Hawley, who is significantly older than Flanagan. This plot led to a gripping yet controversial narrative.
- Character Background: Rosie Webster was a teenage character who faced intense and problematic storylines.
- Infamous Grooming Plot: John Stape kidnapped Rosie for five weeks, resulting in his imprisonment.
- Inappropriate Scenes: The storyline included kissing and bedroom scenes that left Flanagan feeling uncomfortable.
Reflections on Past Experiences
In her new memoir, “Head And Heart: Break-ups, Breakdowns and Being Rosie,” Flanagan expressed her discomfort with the portrayal of her character. She stated, “Was it morally right that I was expected to parade about in my knickers when I was still just a teenager?” She noted that at the time, she didn’t fully grasp the implications of what was happening.
Flanagan also recalled moments on set where other cast members, such as Alison King, displayed concern over how the show was “sexualising” her character. She mentioned feeling profoundly affected after filming certain scenes, saying she felt “minging” afterward.
Impact on Mental Health
Beyond her experiences on set, Flanagan has been candid about her struggles with mental health. She revealed that she has suffered from severe depression, anxiety, and OCD. Furthermore, she discussed her experience with premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), a severe form of premenstrual syndrome.
In her memoir, she also highlighted a painful interaction with co-star Antony Cotton, which left her in tears. His comments about her mental health deeply affected her, showcasing the emotional toll her time on the show took.
Current Endeavors
Despite these challenges, Flanagan remains positively engaged with her career. Now a mother of three, she has transitioned into roles as an influencer and model while participating in reality shows like “Celebs Go Dating.” Although she has expressed a desire to return to Coronation Street, she has not been contacted by the show’s producers since her last appearance in 2018.
Helen Flanagan’s memoir, “Head And Heart: Break-ups, Breakdowns and Being Rosie,” is currently available, offering an in-depth look at her life beyond her notable role on the soap.
