‘David Platt’ has an epileptic seizure in Corriedale

There’s lots of speculation following the dramatic bus crash which saw Coronation Street character, David Platt have a tonic clonic seizure in the first crossover episode of the iconic soaps Coronation Street and Emmerdale.

David was first diagnosed with epilepsy back in 2010, when he had a seizure while in court, being accused of attempted murder. Initially it is thought David is trying to get off the charge but an MRI shows that his ‘funny turns’ are actually complex partial seizures. 

The Epilepsy Society was involved in working with the scriptwriters at the time to make sure the portrayal of epilepsy was accurate. The actor, Jack P Shepherd, who plays the character of David Platt also did his own research. Also a member of the team was also on set to ensure everything went to plan. 

Over the last 16 years, there has been mention of the character having seizures, but they have mainly been well controlled. However, this is the reality of epilepsy, it is not just for a dramatic soap storyline, people can experience breakthrough seizures. there can be many reasons including  tiredness, stress or alcohol. And the character of David is dealing with a very stressful situation, not least his pregnant wife also being harmed in the crash. 

Nicola Swanborough, Head of External Affairs said: “Epilepsy is a dynamic condition which can resurface at any time and unexpectedly. We are always pleased when Soaps such as Coronation Street incorporate epilepsy into their storylines. They are a great platform to discuss the condition and how it can affect anyone without warning. Although the circumstances around epilepsy on tv tend to be dramatic, we hope that it also helps to illustrate the challenges of uncontrolled seizures and the impact that they have on people’s lives. From understanding the time it takes to receive a diagnosis, how people might dismiss zoning out or having a ‘turn’ and the real life consequences of living with a serious neurological condition, it’s important that more people know about epilepsy. It’s more than ‘just seizures’ and we hope that more people will want to learn more and can check our website for advice or call our Helpline.”

If you would like to learn more about the real-life impact of epilepsy on people’s lives, watch our video "Epilepsy - it’s more than just seizures." Full Movie

David’s sister said he had fully recovered from his seizure, but what fate awaits him? If you don’t follow Coronation Street, you can catch up on Corriedale - ITVX