Coronation Street cleared after 200 complaints over male rape storyline

More than 200 people complained to TV Watchdog Ofcom over Coronation Street’s male rape storyline.

Over 7 million viewers watched the episodes in March which saw David Platt sexually assaulted by Josh Tucker.

Josh was seen spiking David’s drink in dark scenes for the ITV soap.

In total, 214 people made official objections to Ofcom over the storyline.

But today the TV watchdog dismissed the complaints. They said: “This storyline tackled a sensitive and challenging subject, which we appreciate was uncomfortable viewing for some.

“However, we considered that ITV took extensive steps to ensure it was handled sensitively and carefully. These included working closely with a victim support group, and repeatedly signposting the help available to anyone affected by sexual violence.

“We also considered that, although the offender’s violent intentions were clearly implied, the scenes were neither explicit nor graphic. Finally, we took into account that clear warnings were broadcast before both episodes.”

Coronation Street boss Kate Oates defended her storyline previously: “We decided to cover the topic of male rape to help try and highlight the culture of silence that surrounds male sexual assault, and issues surrounding male mental health in general.”

She added: “Survivors Manchester have been so generous with their time and knowledge, working with Jack, Ryan and the team, and I’m in awe of the work they do.

“Over the next few weeks of Corrie, our message is to talk: it’s hard to speak out, but if you’re suffering in silence, there are people out there willing to listen and support you.”

A spokesperson for ITV said at the time: “Coronation Street has a long and successful history of tackling serious and thought provoking issues alongside the balance of drama, romance and comedy that the soap is famous for.

“We are mindful of our transmission time and therefore the attack was implied rather than explicit, there was also a warning issued before the episode and info about how to access help at the end.

“Subsequent episodes will focus on David’s mental health as he keeps what has happened to him a secret and struggles to come to terms with the attack.”

SurvivorsUK is a charity that offers help and support for male victims of rape and sexual assault.