The acclaimed BBC drama Waterloo Road is set to confront one of its most challenging storylines yet as it returns for a new series. The show will feature a hard-hitting plot centred on child grooming, focusing on popular character Portia Weever, played by Maisey Robinson.
A Sensitive and Complex Narrative
The storyline will see Portia targeted by the school's football coach, Anthony Walters, portrayed by Karl Davies. Adding a layer of dramatic complexity, Walters is the estranged husband of established character Nicky Walters, played by Kym Marsh. This difficult subject matter will unfold across two episodes of the forthcoming series, which begins on January 6, 2026.
Executive producer Cameron Roach explained the decision to place Portia at the heart of this narrative. "Waterloo Road has a strong tradition of highlighting difficult issues young people face," he said. "Portia has proven to be one of our most popular new characters, and our writing team felt she could portray a truth around this very difficult subject matter."
Collaboration with Experts for Authenticity
To ensure the storyline is handled with the necessary realism and sensitivity, the production team worked closely with the children's charity, the NSPCC. The charity provided expert advice on the portrayal of grooming and its impacts.
Cameron Roach emphasised the importance of this collaboration: "Working with the NSPCC and other experts in the field, we have been able to raise awareness of an important social issue, and demonstrate to young viewers that help and support are always close at hand if needed."
Helen Westerman, NSPCC Strategic Services Manager for Local Campaigns, added: "Child sexual abuse or exploitation can have lifelong effects... Having topics like grooming explored sensitively in flagship shows like Waterloo Road helps share important information with viewers and signpost to essential resources, like the NSPCC Helpline and Childline."
The Return of a Fan Favourite
The new series also marks the return of iconic original character Steph Haydock, played by Denise Welch. Welch revealed that Steph forms a significant bond with Portia Weever during this challenging time.
"The one thing about Steph is that she has always taken on board the kids who people give up on," Welch stated. "She comes in and tries to find the person within Portia... She always goes for the underdog and although it might be an unconventional way of teaching she usually gets through to them."
Since its reboot in 2023, Waterloo Road has continued its legacy of tackling tough social issues, having previously covered coercive control, eating disorders, and mental health. The full boxset of the new series will be available on BBC iPlayer from 6am on January 6.
