Coronation Street star Kate Ford has said that she wants viewers to see Tracy Barlow's softer side as the ruthless character faces a life-changing decision next week.
The ITV soap has huge episodes lined up for Tracy, as she considers going on the run with her partner Rob Donovan (Marc Baylis) once the truth comes out about how he killed Tina McIntyre.
As Rob hides out after his dark secret has been exposed, he convinces Tracy to meet up with him and hand over some cash to help him out. To Rob's surprise, Tracy then vows to join him as he makes his permanent escape.
Wanting some final hours with her daughter Amy, Tracy spends one last day with the youngster before preparing her getaway - but viewers will have to tune in to see whether she can really go through with it.
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Tracy spends her last few hours with Amy
© ITV
Tracy spends her last few hours with Amy
Ford explained: "Tracy keeps Amy off school and they watch films and she doesn't stop crying the whole day, basically. Her head is just full of conflicting thoughts. She has almost gone a bit crazy, she is in shock, she is on a different planet.
"Her feelings are so strong for Rob that she is seriously considering losing everything for him - even her daughter.
"I think a lot of people think Tracy is so selfish and she doesn't love Amy as much as she should, but I have always tried to play the fact that she does adore her daughter, but she is not the best mother.
"People might be surprised about the emotion she is showing, but I'm not and it is good to show a more vulnerable side, to see her hurting."
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Tracy accuses Rob of risking everything for Carla.
© ITV
Tracy accuses Rob of risking everything for Carla
Asked whether viewers will sympathise with Tracy, she replied: "I hope so. I hope they will see a softer side to her and a more human side."
In the longer-term, Tracy's behaviour is expected to take a darker turn as she blames Rob's sister Carla Barlow for exposing his guilt on his wedding day this week.
Ford added: "I have enjoyed playing Tracy with a softer side and not always so aggressive. There has been some good comedy too - working with Marc has been fantastic. I am looking forward to what is coming up now too as Tracy is at her worst when she is hurting, so watch this space."
Coronation Street continues on Wednesday (October 28) at 7.30pm on ITV.