Corrie legend’s return ‘sealed’ after 17 years to ‘save Leanne’ – but fans divided

Corrie fans reckon iconic Les Battersby could be heading back to Weatherfield – but plenty are divided.

The character, played by Bruce Jones, first rocked up to the soap in 1997 alongside his wife Janice (Vicky Entwistle) his daughter Leanne (Jane Danson) and stepdaughter Toyah (Georgia Taylor).

And it’s fair to say he turned the famous cobbles on its head with his menacing and conniving ways. But Les also brought a touch of humour to the long-running ITV soap.

Following Janice and Les’ infamous split due to Janice finding love with Dennie Stringer, Les also formed a new relationship with Chesney and Fiz’s mum, Cilla Brown.

But in 2007, actor Bruce faced suspension from Corrie after it came to light that he had told an undercover reporter about upcoming storylines and made inappropriate comments about the programme.

Les was a staple character at the time. However, it was later announced that Bruce, or Les, would not be returning to the show.

But over in the soap at the moment, daughter Leanne has found herself embroiled in a dramatic cult, as part of a new storyline. The sinister Rowan Cunliffe (Emrhys Cooper) has lured Leanne to the mysterious “self-improvement group” The Institute.

And fans are now certain Les could come back to “sort Rowan out.” Over a Coronation Street Facebook fan page, one viewer claimed: “Les Battersby is coming back in the leanne storyline.”

And fans were quick to share their thought – and it’s fair to say they were divided. “This would be amazing! He could help Leanne and get rid of Rowan,” said one person.

Someone else added: “I liked Les…he acted the part well …. that’s why many ppl not liked him.” A third mused: “I thought this especially with Leanne and Toyah’s storyline.”

But other fans were not too keen – with one writing: “Oh no!!! I really hope not.” A second soap fan proclaimed: “Hope not can’t stand the character unless it’s in flashbacks.” A third mused: “Noooooooooo.”