NICK Tilsley is thrilled after son Sam Blakeman breaks his silence – but the worried father is left with more bad news.
When drug dealer Harvey Gaskell shot Natasha Blakeman in a tragic case of mistaken identity, Natasha lost her life.
She left behind her son Sam, who now lives with Leanne and his dad Nick.
But it soon became clear that the heartbreaking loss had devastating consequences for Sam who stopped speaking.
Despite Nick and Leanne seeking professional help for Sam and getting him a referral to the Mental Health Services for talking therapy – the youngster still unable to communicate.
However, things take a surprise turn in the coming weeks.
On Boxing Day, Nick tries to get Sam to open up and talk to him.
When Nick overhears Sam speak to Hope on the walkie-talkies she got for Christmas he’s overjoyed that he’s finally broken his silence.
Unfortunately, the relief is short-lived when Sam discovers that Nick was eavesdropping.
The doting dad is left panic-stricken that they’re back to square one.
Will Nick be able to help Sam?
Earlier this year, Corrie fans were heartbroken Natasha Blakeman’s goodbye to her son Sam as she died.
The hairdresser – who is played by actress Rachel Leskovac in the ITV soap – passed away during surgery after she was shot by drug dealer Harvey.
One wrote: “How could you break Sam’s heart?! I’m in floods of tears here. Mummy written inside the card sent me over the edge. #CoronationStreet”
A second said: “That has yet again had me in floods. Jude is so good as Sam, Corrie has certainly had the nation sobbing over the last few months. I’ve not got over Seb’s death yet.”
Another added: “Aww this scene totally got me. Jude is a fantastic young actor playing Sam. #Corrie”
