In the episode under scrutiny, Barlow, played by Bill Roache, voiced a number of comments including an assertion that the Christian faith targets "vulnerable people" and warning his grandson about the perils of religious brainwashing with the statement that: “He is already being indoctrinated. I went to his assembly last week and they had paintings on the wall depicting creation. He is being taught creationism."

The Great Defender

ITV’s Corrie web forum has been inundated with viewers’ comments – most of which have been critical of the broadcaster. Media reports that the forum has been closed have proved incorrect.

A spokesperson for ITV said it stood by its broadcast unequivocally: "Coronation Street is a soap opera set in modern society and therefore represents views from all side of the religious spectrum.

"At the moment we have a very positive story involving Sophie Webster and her new found interest in religion. Emily Bishop has also always been seen as a very positive representation of Christianity. Likewise, Ken Barlow's different views on religion have always been a strong aspect of his character."

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Comments (5)

2  By Simon Wharton , on 16-04-2009 16:43 I don't believe that there is a god. Why shouldn't my beliefs be represented? If there was a god s/he would strike down Corrie and all who reside in it. I've loathed it since I was a kid Report

5  By Simon Wharton , on 19-04-2009 21:39 Mr Sock, with respect I disagree, but I'm on slightly week ground as I didn't see the episode nor any other episode in many years. So I'm basing an argument based on some heavy assumption as to the content in question. If my beleiefs are based on the premise that there is no God of any sort then it is equally valid to have those beliefs expressed in drama by expression of disbelief. To say that expression of disbelief should not be made is, to my mind, denying me my rights. In effect it seems that you are saying that a belief in no God can only be expressed by saying at the same time "There is no God, Allah, Jehovah, Buddah" etc. That's quite restrictive of my freedom of expression. Realistically, in the same way that you can say, presumably, "I believe in a Christian God", I should equally be allowed to say " I do not believe in a Christian God". If the question as to why arises then it's appropriate to elaborate. Similarly, if a Muslim were to state similar, my response would be the same as to a Christian. And has been.  It's not a petty point. It is dificult for my beliefs (or lack thereof) to be included in my childs education. Most schools, though multicultural, seem to take a view that there is some sort of God of some denomination.  So to have an atheist view expressed on the box is a step forward and very necessary in my view.  Probably not the right website for this kind of discussion tho. Report