‘Coronation Street’ star Nathan Graham teases homophobic story for his gay character
The actor portrays James Bailey in the long-running soap
By Steve Brown
Words: Steve Brown
Coronation Street star Nathan Graham has said his character James Bailey will face issues on racism and homophobia in the future.
Last year, the long-running ITV soap introduced the first black family onto the cobbles – an historic first for the soap.
With dad Edison (Trevor Michael Georges) mum Aggie (Lorna Laidlaw) and eldest son Michael (Ryan Russell), the Bailey’s also gave a bump to Weatherfield’s LGBTQ population in the form of youngest son and amateur footballer James (Graham).
❤️#Corrie #James #Ed pic.twitter.com/eVX0oezaa7
— Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) February 19, 2020
Upon their arrival, James was not out to his family but since then he has come out to friends and his family.
Last night, James came out to his father who proceeded to threaten James’ boyfriend, Danny (Dylan Brady) and went on to admit to his wife that he found homosexuality ‘unnatural’.
“Any Father who would reject their son for being gay is no Father at all.”
For anyone who has been affected by this story, please visit https://t.co/zA0UnU3al2 pic.twitter.com/HyRpZyk6GH
— Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) February 19, 2020
And while appearing on Lorraine today (February 20), Nathan revealed that his character – who is a professional footballer – will face issues on racism and homophobia in the future.
He told Christine Lampard: “I feel like we’re tackling two things.
“The racism and the homophobia. For James, he kind of has to deal with both at the same time.
“To highlight both issues is really important – discrimination is discrimination.”
After last night’s dramatic scenes, @itvcorrie actor @Nathan_graham5 highlights the importance of his character James’ storyline tackling both racism and homophobia.
Catch up on the powerful episodes now: https://t.co/mi9dO8esHN pic.twitter.com/el5r6DUJoC
— Lorraine (@lorraine) February 20, 2020
James’ football career is also set to play a huge part in his fight against discrimination for both race and sexuality in the sport.
Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV.