Coronation Street boss on Carla's unexpected comeback storyline

“Carla’s comeback storyline is good, I don’t think it’s what people would expect," said the Corrie producer. “It’s a storyline that’s got long-running consequences. I think when she first comes back people will be like, ‘Oh, I didn’t expect this to be her returning story’, but as it runs on things will become clear and they will realise why Corrie has brought her back.”

• Coronation Street: Bethany Platt to become a lapdancer
• Coronation Street: Robert's shock accident leads to cancer bombshell
• Coronation Street: Anna traps Phelan in tense showdown?

Radio Times revealed back in August that actress Alison King would be making her Corrie comeback for the festive season. The character of Carla hasn’t been seen on screen since May 2016 when her wedding to Nick Tilsley was ruined and she left town seemingly for good.

Speaking about how the managed to convince King to reprise the role, Oates added to the Star: “We know each other off screen and get on really well - it’s just an element of timing. Whenever I saw her I’d be like, ‘Any chance? Have another glass of wine, any chance now?’

“It was just good timing. I’d sign her up forever. Hopefully she’s happy. And it’s my job to make sure she doesn’t feel exhausted like she did last time, because you want longevity from characters."

You can watch a 60-second rundown of all this week's drama on Coronation Street below

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIj3qAwyaKE

And visit our dedicated Coronation Street page for all the latest news, interviews and spoilers.