Coronation Street star James Cartwright has spoken about Theo Silverton’s role in Corriedale for the first time, warning that the evil character is a “monster” who isn’t getting any better. Fans are bracing themselves for dark scenes after Theo and his partner Todd Grimshaw were recently named on the full list of 41 Corrie and Emmerdale characters who’ll be featuring in the crossover event.

Theo has been making Todd’s life a misery for months with his abusive behaviour behind closed doors. While some of the local residents have now realised that something isn’t right in their relationship, Theo has manipulated the situation to make Todd look like the aggressor.

Keen to hear what happens next, we caught up with James for an exclusive chat at the red carpet premiere for Corriedale in Bradford this week.

Asked what Theo will be getting up to in the hour-long special, James replied: “I don’t want to give too much away, but I think he does some things that are out of character that will surprise people… and then other things that people will expect from him!

“He’s a monster. Nobody thinks they’re a bad person and he does set out with the best of intentions, but I think his narcissism and verging on sociopathy is out of control.

“As things move along, he gets worse and worse and worse. Now he’s completely unredeemable. But he thinks he loves [Todd] and it’s that delusion that comes from loving someone too much. Sometimes I get the scripts and I go: ‘Blimey O’Reilly!'”

Sharing his delight at being included in the historic soap special, James continued: “I’ve had the nicest time. Everyone is wonderful. You’re in this situation where you start on the soap and you never know what to expect.

“I’ve been lucky enough to have a great story. Then the special episode with the hidden camera and then Corriedale.

“It’s been a real pleasure and privilege and shout-out to [producers] Iain [MacLeod], Verity [MacLeod] and Kate Brooks for coming up with the most wonderful stories. I think the show’s in a golden period. I think it’s fantastic.”

Show bosses recently revealed that Billy Mayhew will uncover Theo’s abusive behaviour within the next few weeks, sparking tensions at Debbie Webster and Ronnie Bailey’s wedding.

Quizzed on where things go from there for Theo, James warned: “I can’t say but he doesn’t get any better! He’s not a mums’ favourite, Theo! You wouldn’t want him coming over for Christmas dinner.

“Billy is very strong. So you never know, it could be the end of Theo! I can’t say too much!”