Coronation Street actor Jack P. Shepherd has revealed that he "couldn't stop crying" after filming a scene in the aftermath of his character David Platt's sexual assault.
The Corrie star, who has played the character on the soap for 18 years, says that this could be "one of the darkest places David has been".
In scenes set to air this Friday, David will be drugged and sexually assaulted by his supposed friend, mechanic Josh Tucker (Ryan Clayton), after they go out for drinks.
Next week, viewers will see David struggle to cope in the aftermath of the attack, with Shepherd admitting that the emotional scenes took their toll on him on set.
He said: "This is potentially one of the darkest places David has been. He was obviously massively affected by Kylie's death but everyone knew about that and was looking out for him, and even though he didn't really want to talk about it in depth it wasn't a secret.
"This time it is just all in his head, he has no outlet, he doesn't speak to anyone and the only other person who knows is his attacker and he is enjoying winding David up and having power over him.
"David is tormented and the viewer needs to see that. So for David to break down it needs to feel real and not forced – it is very emotional and after one scene I couldn't stop crying."
The actor also explained David's decision not to confide in his girlfriend Shona, saying: "He can't talk about it at all.
"In fact it really affects his relationship with Shona, as when they start to get intimate all he can think about is what happened with Josh, and he gets angry and lashes out.
"Shona has no idea what is wrong with him. He is not angry with her, he is angry with himself, and that is when his relationship starts to fall apart."
Shepherd previously said that he hopes the male sexual assault storyline will get viewers talking and could "help someone who has gone through something similar".
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays on TV3 and UTV.
If you have been affected by any of these issues please contact the Rape Crisis Centre on 1800 778 888 or the Samaritans on 116 123.
