Roy Cropper, one of the most beloved characters in Coronation Street history, is worrying millions of viewers as he continues to appear in pain, especially with his increasingly obvious back pain.

In the newly aired episode, Roy repeatedly held onto his chair, grimaced as he moved, and cleverly hid his fatigue so as not to worry Carla Connor.

However, it was this stubbornness and silence that made viewers unable to hold back their tears.

Carla, who was preparing for her wedding to Lisa Swain, earnestly advised Roy to go to the hospital for a check-up.

She even expressed her wish that Roy would be the one to hold her hand on the big day. The moment Carla said that, Roy’s eyes suddenly became quiet – a detail that sent chills down the viewers’ spines, as he seemed to know that his health was no longer as strong as before.

On social media, Coronation Street forums exploded with debate. “This back pain is definitely a sign of tragedy,” wrote one fan. “I’m afraid the writers are preparing us to say goodbye to Roy.” Another added: “They’re planting the pieces, and I think it’s cancer. Please don’t, we’re not ready to lose Roy.”

From what seemed like a minor back pain, the script has deftly created an emotional earthquake. Fans, used to seeing Roy as the gentle anchor of Weatherfield, are now faced with the prospect of losing its biggest icon.