“Bernie is carrying huge guilt over Kit. She’s managed to bury this guilt for years but deep down, she’s never stopped thinking about him and his well being,” reveals Jane Hazelgrove, discussing the emotional rollercoaster her character Bernie Winter is on in Coronation Street.
Bernie is struggling to cope with her son Paul’s illness, leaving her feeling utterly helpless. “It’s extremely tough to play, but we get to take these characters off and are fortunate to only be acting it rather than living with this horrible disease,” Hazelgrove says with empathy.
While facing Paul’s health battle, Bernie also grapples with the arrival of her long-lost son, Kit. “Bernie would love to begin building a relationship with Kit and try to fix all of her wrongs,” Hazelgrove explains, acknowledging the complexities of the situation. “She has always imagined what he would be like but I think she perhaps realises that he’s not as decent as she had hoped he would be.”
Bernie fears Kit’s presence could strain her relationship with Gemma and Paul, especially during this critical time. “Bernie definitely realises that this is now a possibility which isn’t ideal,” says Hazelgrove. “She knows she’s got to play the hand she’s now been dealt with the best she can and try to make amends.”
Looking back at Bernie’s journey, Hazelgrove finds her character’s evolution fascinating. “Yes, I think Bernie has grown considerably over the years,” she reflects. “Learning that Kel had abused Paul was the turning point for her realisation that life isn’t all giggles.”
Hazelgrove highlights what makes Bernie a joy to portray. “I love that she’s always in the moment and responds to things without any emotional filter. She says what she thinks and boy have the writers given me some brilliant lines to play!” “In the tradition of all of those strong Corrie women that have gone before, it’s the tension between strength and weakness that makes Bernie so brilliant,” she adds.
Coronation Street holds a special place in Hazelgrove’s heart. “Definitely being part of such a much loved and historical show,” she beams. “Getting to play Bernie is one of the highlights of my career.”
Hazelgrove concludes by emphasizing the importance of strong female characters. “It’s essential for Corrie to keep creating these characters because as far as I’m concerned all women are powerful and iconic,” she declares.
Coronation Street continues tomorrow at 8pm on ITV1
You must be logged in to post a comment.