Coronation Street character Kit Green faces a life-changing stage three breast cancer diagnosis in a rare and serious health storyline airing on ITV in September. Played by Jacob Roberts, Kit encounters the diagnosis after seeking medical help independently.
How the Coronation Street Breast Cancer Storyline Unfolds
The plot begins when the family learns they may carry the familial BRCA gene following the death of estranged Aunt Celeste. While mum Bernie, played by Jane Hazlegrove, and half-sister Gemma, played by Dolly-Rose Campbell, face genetic testing, Kit already visits a doctor regarding health concerns without telling his relatives. He receives a stage three breast cancer diagnosis that poses a severe threat to his life.
Actor Jacob Roberts explained his approach to the plot, stating that he initially did not know men could develop the disease and felt his character should share that ignorance for authenticity. “Not only for his age, but how can I have this as a bloke and who else in the family could be affected,” Roberts said.
Raising Awareness for Male Breast Cancer
Male breast cancer accounts for less than one percent of all UK yearly breast cancer cases, affecting almost 500 men annually. The soap’s production team collaborated closely with cancer charities Macmillan Cancer Support and Breast Cancer Now to ensure an accurate portrayal.
Dany Bell, Cancer Care Strategic Adviser for Macmillan Cancer Support, said that the collaboration aims to help viewers relate to Kit’s shock and anxiety. Sally Kum, associate director of nursing and health information at Breast Cancer Now, added that the storyline serves as a reminder that the disease can impact anyone, emphasizing the importance of regular chest checks and prompt GP visits for unusual changes.
Broadcast Details
Viewers can watch Kit’s journey unfold across September as he moves from diagnosis and denial to treatment. Coronation Street airs weeknights on ITV1 and is available for streaming on ITVX.