Recent events in the world of Coronation Street have stirred up quite the conversation among fans and former cast members alike.
Vicky Entwistle, known for her role as Janice Battersby, took to social media to voice her displeasure with ITV after her former co-star Bryce Jones, who portrayed her on-screen husband Les Battersby, was killed off in the soap.
Vicky shared a nostalgic photo of the two, emphasizing that receiving news of his exit via email was far from adequate.
She expressed her understanding of the hurt Bryce felt, stating, “I know you are hurt. An email does in no way qualify.”
In a touching exchange, Bryce replied with gratitude, reminiscing about the best moments of their time together on the show.
He reflected, “Thank you, Vic. It was the best time of my life working with you. Loved every minute of being part of one of the best families in soap.”
A Disappointing Decision
This development follows Bryce’s concerns about the show’s direction.
He mentioned that fans would be disheartened by Les’s permanent departure, accusing the show of neglecting public demand.
Bryce, now 71, rose to fame in 1997 as the outspoken Les, the patriarch of the notorious Battersby family.
However, his journey on the show took a turn when an undercover reporter captured him making unsavory remarks about fans and leaking secret plotlines, leading to his suspension in 2007.
In his first interview since learning about Les’s exit, Bryce shared how the decision was communicated to him.
“They already emailed me over a fortnight ago to tell me what was happening. I thought, well fine, I played him for ten years.
It gives me closure. Maybe it will stop people from constantly asking when I’m going back,” he said.
Mixed Emotions About the End
Bryce expressed a blend of emotions regarding Les’s demise. While he felt a sense of relief, he also experienced sadness and questioned the character’s potential return in the modern storyline landscape.
“If he went back, where would he go? How would he get back? What would he do? Where would the storylines take him?” he pondered.
Many fans might share Bryce’s apprehension about the character’s death.
He predicts mixed reactions, with some viewers upset, while others may feel it was time for Les to leave.
“I can imagine some people being really upset and annoyed, while others will say, ‘You did your time; it was time to go,’” he noted.
Reflecting on His Time
Despite his recent struggles, including living off benefits after losing a significant fortune, Bryce holds no grudges against the show.
“They gave me ten years, and I invented a great character that became a hit with everyone,” he stated.
He acknowledged the show’s legacy, even as he distanced himself from watching it.
“I’d rather watch good documentaries. I didn’t get much chance to watch it when I was in it because we were always working.”
In the end, Bryce remains grateful for his time on Coronation Street, emphasizing that he wishes the best for the show and its future, despite a perceived decline in popularity.
“Coronation Street will always be there,” he affirmed, highlighting the show’s lasting impact on its fans and its cast members alike.
As he moves on from this chapter, Bryce is curious to see how the audience reacts to the news of Les Battersby’s departure.
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