Actor Liam McCheyne, who portrays troubled teenager Dylan Wilson in Coronation Street,

has found the adjustment to playing life in the Secure Training Centre (STC) a deeply eye-opening experience.

As Dylan’s storyline unfolds this week, McCheyne opens up about his character’s struggles

and what it’s like to step into the shoes of a young boy facing serious challenges in a highly controlled environment.

Reflecting on his first experience on set, McCheyne admits the reality of the STC setting was a revelation.

“I remember walking on that set for the first time, and it was a real eye-opener to think that there are 16 or 17-year-old lads in places like this for a long period of time,” he shared.

It’s clear that this environment is a far cry from Dylan’s previous life, and the actor’s deepened understanding of his character’s circumstances brings a new layer to the portrayal.

Dylan’s Struggles in the STC

Dylan Wilson’s recent sentence to six months at the STC is the latest chapter in his troubled life, and it has proven to be a difficult adjustment. In the latest episodes, viewers watch as Dylan struggles to find his place within the harsh confines of the institution. According to McCheyne, the young character has retreated inward as he faces constant challenges. “He’s really gone into his shell,” McCheyne explains. “Every time Dylan gets into trouble, he’s out of his depth.”

Despite the overwhelming circumstances, Dylan has managed to forge a connection with one other inmate, Brody, played by Ryan Mulvey. Dylan finds solace in Brody’s friendship, something that seems to offer him a glimmer of hope in an otherwise daunting situation. “He’s made a friend in Brody, and I think he finds it reassuring that there’s somebody there who wants to help him,” McCheyne says. But as events unfold, Dylan’s relationship with Brody becomes increasingly complicated.

Brody: A Friend or Foe?

While Brody offers Dylan some comfort in the STC, the bond between them soon faces a critical test. This week’s episodes will see Dylan caught in a morally ambiguous situation when Brody offers him a joint. For Dylan, who has never experimented with drugs before, the offer is initially met with hesitation. “Dylan’s never done anything like that before, so he’s very apprehensive at first when Brody offers it to him,” McCheyne reveals. However, the peer pressure to fit in and survive in the harsh environment of the STC proves too much for the young boy.

Dylan’s desire to be accepted and avoid standing out in such a tense atmosphere ultimately leads him to make the difficult choice to go along with Brody’s offer. “He just feels he needs to fit in in order to survive,” McCheyne explains. This moment of weakness sets the stage for what could be a pivotal turn in Dylan’s journey—one where he will have to face the consequences of his actions and the true nature of his relationship with Brody.

Working with Ryan Mulvey

The arrival of Ryan Mulvey, known for his previous role on Hollyoaks, as Brody has brought a new dynamic to the show. McCheyne admits that working with Mulvey has been a great experience, despite the difference in filming styles between the two soap operas. “It’s been great,” McCheyne says. “We did have a laugh, however, as they film differently on Hollyoaks, so on Ryan’s first day we did two scenes in two hours, and he couldn’t believe it worked so quickly here. I was like, ‘Yep, get used to it!’”

The chemistry between McCheyne and Mulvey is evident, and it’s clear that their partnership both on and off screen has helped shape the evolving dynamic between Dylan and Brody. As viewers continue to watch Dylan’s journey in the STC, it’s likely that this relationship will continue to play a key role in his growth, for better or worse.

The Road Ahead for Dylan Wilson

As Dylan’s journey through the SC continues, McCheyne is eager to see how his character evolves. With the looming uncertainty surrounding his friendship with Brody, viewers will be kept on the edge of their seats as they follow Dylan’s tumultuous path. Will he find a way to navigate the challenges of the STC without losing himself, or will his circumstances push him down a darker path?

For now, McCheyne is focused on portraying a character whose growth and struggle feel all too real. “It’s been a real learning experience for me,” the actor concludes. “I hope viewers will continue to follow Dylan’s journey and see how he deals with the pressure of his surroundings.”

For more exclusive behind-the-scenes insight and details about Dylan’s life in the STC, fans can pick up the latest issue of Inside Soap.

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