Coronation Street star Ben Price has confirmed there’s no way back for his character Nick Tilsley and Leanne Battersby, following their most recent break-up.
Nick and Leanne are well known for their on/off relationship, which has played out over more than 25 years on the cobbles. Together, they have endured failed marriages, an abortion, serious injuries and even death.
But it seems Nick’s recent affair with Leanne’s sister Toyah is the final nail in the coffin for the iconic couple.
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Nick and Toyah grew close after Leanne was taken in by cult leader Rowan Cunliffe, who slowly began to isolate her from her loved ones. Though Leanne eventually realised the truth about the Institute, it was already too late to salvage her relationship, as Nick had discovered his feelings for Toyah.
Next week’s episodes will see Nick and Leanne dividing up their belongings as she officially moves out of their flat. Speaking about their latest separation, Price confirmed a reconciliation is not on the cards.
“He’s always going to love her. Part of Nick still loves her but it’s definitely finished. It’s definitely over, it’s not one of those half break-ups,” he said. “I think something changed for him when she went to the Institute, for Nick that was the end.”
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The actor explained that Nick has a “deeper connection” with Toyah, adding that: “There’s a lot more to it than just the physical.”
“I genuinely think he’s in love with her. I know this is a bit weird, she’s Leanne’s sister, but I think he actually really loves her and he thinks this could be something and it was a bit sad how it had to end,” he shared.
Price compared Nick’s relationship with the two sisters, saying that “everything was a bit different with Toyah, a bit lighter”.
He continued: “I think after the way Leanne suddenly went to the Institute, it really made him think ‘I just don’t know you at all’. I think he’s being genuine with Toyah.”
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
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