This article contains Coronation Street spoilers, and also discussion of sensitive subject matter such as domestic abuse and coercive control.

Coronation Street has aired a huge development in Todd Grimshaw’s domestic abuse plot, as Theo Silverton’s mask continues to slip. With Todd’s loved ones now convinced of Theo’s true colours, the villain began plotting his escape.

But will Todd go along with their ‘fresh start’ in Ireland, or could he finally be freed from his horrific relationship?

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Tonight’s episode began with a clandestine meeting between Glenda Shuttleworth, Sarah Platt, Summer Spellman and Christina Boyd, as George filled them on his recent discovery. He explained his theory that Theo is abusing Todd and the others chimed in with their own supporting observations.

Their conversation was interrupted by Todd who quickly realised what was happening and vehemently defended Theo. “I can explain ev

ery one of those incidents, every example you gave,” he angrily stated.

However, when Todd denied being a “battered husband”, George pointed out that they hadn’t accused Theo of physical violence. In that moment, George became teary-eyed as he realised the extent of the abuse.

Meanwhile, Sarah visited Gary Windass to share her concerns and asked how Todd seemed at the surprise wedding. The realisation soon hit Gary and he headed over to Todd and Theo’s flat to investigate.

Outside the flat, Todd put on a fake smile as he assured an unconvinced Gary that the pair were in the “honeymoon period”. When the builder invited himself in, he was horrified to hear Theo speaking harshly to his husband – unaware that Gary was

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Theo quickly changed his demeanour in front of his friend, but the genie was out of the bottle. Gary noticed Todd’s shaky hands and nervous energy and made his suspicions known.

“If I find out it’s true…” Gary began, alluding to Theo’s abuse and warning that he is capable of extreme violence, too. “I’m onto you, Theo. We all are,” he added.

Though Theo insisted Gary had his wires crossed, the scaffolder was clearly feeling the pressure as the evidence against him began to mount. When Todd returned to the living room, Theo shared that he had taken a job in Belfast and was hoping to move there together in just two weeks.

“We’ll never be happy here with people sticking their nose in, will we?” he said, as Todd hesitantly agreed. Will Theo continue to escape justice or are too many people now aware of his dark side?

Coronation Street airs on weeknights at 8.30pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX and YouTube.