Coronation Street spoilers follow.
There’s trouble in paradise for Coronation Street’s Leanne Battersby next week, as her romance with Idris Nazir takes a turn. Leanne is furious to discover Idris is scheming behind her back. But will he be able to charm his way into her good books again?
After warding off other potential investors, Idris is desperate to buy Alya Nazir’s share of Speed Daal, but the latter makes it clear she won’t be lowballed. Unwilling to miss the business opportunity, Idris sets up a secret poker night in the restaurant to secure the cash he needs.
ITV
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The newcomer recruits poker whizz Ollie Driscoll to play on his behalf and offers him a cut of the winnings, while instructing him to cheat. The plan goes fairly smoothly until disgruntled Brody Michaelis spills the beans to Leanne, who ousts Idris from her business and possibly her life.
Speaking about the future of their relationship, Junade Khan, who plays Idris, suggested that Leanne would eventually forgive him as she’s “intrigued” by him. But instead of changing his ways, Idris could see this as a green light to continue his shady deals.
“He treats her like a princess and offers her that bit of attention, which she likely appreciates given everything she’s been through. They are also kindred spirits in a way,” he explained.
“The problem with Idris is that he’s never content; he’s always thinking about the next project. I think Leanne will reign him in to a degree, but Idris will likely keep operating behind her back to get what he wants.”
ITV
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Despite his secret dark side, Idris has also been a source of comic relief on the soap, with his snarky comments and charisma. And while his relationship with Leanne could bring out his softer side, Khan reiterated that Idris’ main priority is still making money.
“He’s a humorous character, and I love that because Coronation Street is so rooted in comedy alongside the serious drama,” said the star.
“As for his motivations, there is a lot of erratic, obsessive behaviour, he’s constantly chasing the next business deal. I think there’s a sense of having something to prove. Growing up in a poor household, compared to more well-off families, he felt like a second-class citizen.
“He didn’t feel loved at home, so he’s always craved a family. Finding that solace with Leanne, who is a very real person, has been significant for him.”
Coronation Street airs on weeknights at 8.30pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.
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