Ross Wilkes (Ian Burfield) once again highlighted his outdated views when it comes to gender in Coronation Street this evening.
The ITV soap left us all on edge earlier this year when it was suggested that Ross, who is Tyrone Dobb’s (Alan Halsall) father, potentially killed Cassie Plummer (Claire Sweeney).
During the character’s final scenes, she was having a showdown with Ross in his car. Because we never saw Cassie get on her train, no-one actually knows if she’s safe and well.
With Tyrone convinced that his mum doesn’t want anything to do with his family, he’s allowed Ross to slot into the grandparent role.
A few weeks ago, Ross spent time with Tyrone’s young son Dorin. The little lad was playing with a doll but, in Ross’ eyes, this was something boys don’t do.
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Ross took the toy and threw it behind him. In a chilling moment, he told Dorin that little boys don’t play with dolls, and that continuing to be ‘soft’ will mean he turns out just like his dad.
Driven by toxic masculinity, Ross presented Dorin with some boxing gloves in today’s episode, and encouraged the youngster to have a go.
Dorin wasn’t keen, so Ross turned his attention to Tyrone.
Just like Dorin, Tyrone absolutely hated throwing punches with his dad. Ross encouraged Tyrone to put more effort in, but got far too passionate and very nearly punched his son in the face.
Tyrone was very uncomfortable, and distracted himself by focusing on the family dinner.
The influence that Ross has over Tyrone will continue this week. When Ruby (Billie Naylor) expresses an interest in boxing, Tyrone pipes up and says that it isn’t for girls.
Hope Stape (Isabella Flanagan) calls her dad out for sexism until Tyrone backs down and agrees that Ruby can attend a club.
In the pub, Fiz Stape (Jennie McAlpine) sends Ty a text asking to pick up some snacks for their film night. Ross tells him to ignore Fiz’s message, takes his phone, and encourages Tyrone to have another drink.
Fiz has previously made it clear that she isn’t Ross’ number one fan. How will she react when she discovers that he stopped Ty from spending time with her?