A TOP Coronation Street writer has blasted the ITV soap for culling a character – who then died two months later in real life.
Scriptwriter Daran Little, 58, vented his fury at the incident – which happened more than two decades ago – on his page on X, formerly known as Twitter.
He recalled Coronation Street stalwart Alf Roberts’ tragic on-screen death after a soap fan page reminded viewers of the sad moment.
They uploaded a snapshot of the former Weatherfield mayor and grocer, played by Bryan Mosley, laid back on a chair.
The caption for the snap read: “25 years ago today: Alf Roberts passes away peacefully at Nick Tilsley’s 18th birthday party.”
It was later revealed how Alf suffered a stroke and subsequently died.
Bryan played the iconic soap role in three separate periods, firstly from 1961 to 1963, then solely in 1967, followed by a final stint between 1993 and 1999.
It was during the latter year that the Yorkshire-born actor passed away and Daran has now taken aim at his soap exit.
In his caption, he ranted: “This was horrible… Bryan didn’t want to leave.
“I stood watching this scene being filmed comforting Barbara Knox who was crying.
“Less than two months later Bryan himself was dead.
“A wonderful man of God, a terrific friend, kind and generous and forever in my heart.”
Fans were quick to comment, with one writing: “One of many great character actors in the history of Corrie.”
Another added: “God rest his soul. I remember the episode. It was beautifully written and a dignified exit for Bryan.
“Leave it to Alf Roberts to die at a party! His jubilance was central to so many storylines.”
A third then put: “That’s sad, but I also love that the character had a definite end and didn’t fizzle out off screen like often happens.”
One added: “I remember it well. Felt brutal and incredibly cruel. Loving your work on Eastenders. I know how much Corrie means to you, it’s almost woven into your DNA. Would you ever go back?
“Would love to see what The Street would look like with you as Producer.”
Daran is a BAFTA-winning and Emmy Award-nominated TV writer.
He is the only writer to pen more than 100 Corrie episodes, these spanning between 2000 and 2010.
He introduced the Cobbles’ first gay character, this being Todd Grimshaw, as well as bringing comedian Peter Kay into the fold as Eric Gartside.
He then went on to write for rival soap EastEnders straight after.
Daran previously told of his plans to quit the UK for Spain after his rent was hiked by 15 per cent.
This week, he has also been forced to address EastEnders fan backlash after a huge backlash to Max Bowden’s shock exit.
