In a shocking new twist on Coronation Street, Todd Grimshaw's life is sent into a tailspin as his abusive partner, Theo Silverton, masterminds a situation that causes Todd's temper to explode at his friend and employer, George Shuttleworth.
Theo's Calculated Cruelty
Theo's campaign of control and abuse against Todd has been steadily intensifying. After initially isolating Todd from his support network, particularly his friend Billy Mayhew, and committing the ultimate betrayal by sleeping with another man in their shared flat, Theo's behaviour has become increasingly violent. Viewers have witnessed horrifying scenes, including Theo force-feeding a kebab to Todd and pouring milk all over him.
The manipulation reaches a new low in upcoming episodes. Theo, who desperately needs work, pressures a deeply hurt Todd to make amends with Pete, the very man Theo was unfaithful with, as Pete can offer him and Gary Windass a job.
A Funeral and a Set-Up
The situation comes to a head on the morning of a major funeral for a local dignitary, which Todd and George are preparing to officiate. After Todd spends the night on the sofa, he wakes in a panic to discover his alarm never sounded. The crisis deepens when he finds all of his white shirts are in the washing machine, mid-cycle.
Unbeknownst to Todd, Theo placed them there while he slept, deliberately sabotaging his ability to work. With Todd missing and unable to be contacted, a panicking George is left in the lurch until Christina Boyd steps in to take Todd's place at the funeral.
The Explosive Aftermath
When Todd finally makes contact, he is furious to learn he has been replaced. Seizing the opportunity, Theo pretends to be supportive, winding Todd up by insisting that George is out of order and that Todd shouldn't let his employer trample over him. Grateful for what he believes is support, Todd remains completely unaware that Theo orchestrated the entire disaster.
Later, when George and Christina return, pleased with how the funeral went, they are confronted by a seething Todd. He completely loses his temper, ranting at a stunned George. While George is a patient man, Todd's outburst is a severe miscalculation, especially since his no-show had put George's professional reputation on the line.
This vicious manipulation raises a terrifying question: has Theo successfully driven another wedge between Todd and the people who care about him, isolating him even further within the abusive relationship?
