JAMES Bailey is hounded by the press in Coronation Street next week after his former fling Danny outs him on social media.
The young footballer – played by Nathan Graham on the ITV soap – has been keeping his sexuality secret as he fears he will face prejudice as an openly gay, black player.
Corrie fans have watched James go to desperate lengths to keep his sexuality a secret on the soap.
James did however come out to his brother Michael and mother Aggie and felt a sense of relief afterwards.
But when he finally plucked up the courage to come out to his builder dad Ed, viewers were devastated by his negative reaction.
Ed later apologised but it’s clear he’s still fearful about how James will be treated as a gay man in sport.
In an upcoming episode, Aggie collects her award at The Weatherfield Golden Hearts Awards while Ed, Michael and James look on proudly.
But James is horrified when a reporter approaches him and reveals there are rumours about his sexuality circulating on social media.
James insists he’s not gay, before shuffling away in panic.
At home, James explains to Ed and Aggie how Danny has outed him on social media and laments that his career has been ruined.
Later in the week, Michael confirms that Danny has taken down his original message, but James worries it’s still too late.
In an explosive showdown, James then confronts Danny and angrily points out that he should have been able to come out on his own terms – and that he had no right.
Later, James is speechless when he gets a text from his manager asking him to attend a meeting with a County press officer.
Aggie also reveals they’ve had several calls from newspapers wanting to get his side of the story.
The County Manager and Press Officer call at the house to discuss James’ options.
They promise that James has their full support.
But James lies to them and insists he’s not gay.
The Press Officer advises him that if that is truly the case, it’s best for him not to say anything.
Later, James joins his family in the pub and tells them he’s insisted he’s not gay and that he’s just going to lay low for a while.
Ed is clearly relieved but Aggie and Michael worry that James is living a lie.
Will the footballer find a way to be true to himself?
