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As Rowna’s trial approaches, Leanne is a bundle of emotions. Jane Danson, who plays her, explains: ‘She just feels like a bit of a fool, really. Now it’s all come out, and she’s realised she’d been sucked in. This is the start of her trying to prove herself and explain why she did what she did. At the trial, she gives this lovely speech, apologising and saying she wasn’t trying to hurt anyone – she was just striving to be better. But in the midst of it all, Nick and Toyah got together, and everything fell apart.’
Leanne’s determination to see Rowan pay for his actions is driven by guilt over Amy’s lost inheritance. ‘She just feels bad for Amy and wants to make amends. It’s her way of repairing the damage caused by everything that played out with The Institute. This trial is the climax of all that, but it does open up doors to other things.’
Her fiery side comes out in court when she loses her temper under questioning. ‘In true Leanne style, she speaks first and engages her brain later! Everyone’s told her how to behave, but this is her chance to have her voice and explain. It’s her right to reply, and she takes it.’
Leanne’s personal life is no less dramatic. Learning that Nick and Toyah’s affair has continued leaves her reeling. ‘It’s just the pits for her! She’d made peace with the first time, even though she didn’t agree with it, because she loves Toyah so much. But to find out it’s still going on – she’s at the end of her rope. She resents Toyah for taking her whole life away, and it’s great to play out!’
As for what’s next, Leanne is plotting. ‘She’s playing with them both – making Nick feel guiltier and trying to get a confession out of him. When that doesn’t work, she’s like, “Right! I’ll show you both!”‘
The week also brings sadness as Leanne and Toyah attend their dad Les’ funeral. ‘For a moment, it pulls them back together. It’s really sad for both of them, but in the back of Leanne’s mind, she’s still like, “Yeah, but you still did what you did!” There are some nice reminiscences for the audience, but Leanne’s agenda is never far away.’
Reflecting on The Institute storyline, Jane acknowledges mixed reactions. ‘I think some people liked it, and some didn’t – and I totally get that because Leanne is such a strong character. But I watched documentaries on these situations, and you see how anyone can get caught up in them. I loved working with Emrhys [Cooper, who played Rowan] – he was such a lovely guy and so positive. I really miss him. This story was another chapter for Leanne, and for that, I’m always grateful.’
The trial, Toyah’s betrayal, and a family funeral make for an emotional and dramatic week for Leanne. How will she cope with everything that’s thrown at her? Stay tuned to Coronation Street to find out!
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