Corrie bosses to explain Le Vell absence?

Coronation Street bosses have reportedly come up with a way to explain Michael Le Vell’s absence from the soap.

Le Vell, who has played the role of Kevin Webster since 1983, was last month charged with 19 offences including raping a child, indecent assault of a child, and sexual activity with a child.

A Coronation Street spokesperson shortly afterwards confirmed that the actor would not appear in any further episodes of the programme pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.

The Daily Star reports that in upcoming scenes Kevin’s ex-wife Sally will tell the neighbours that he has had to go and care for his father Bill, who has fallen ill. This leaves the door open for Le Vell to return in the future should he be cleared of the offences.

A source said: “Hopefully this will end speculation that Michael is not part of the Corrie family.

“Sending Kevin to look after his dad is an easy thing to do because it means he can come back whenever he likes.

“With this storyline it won’t look odd if Kevin is away for a few months and it gives Michael the time to clear his name and then get back to work.”

Le Vell returns to court today (March 20).