Coronation Street fans were moved to tears as they watched a pivotal moment for bereaved youngster Sam Blakeman.
The 10-year-old has fallen silent and been shutting himself away in his room since his mum Natasha Blakeman was gunned down and killed in a case of mistaken identity last month.
His dad Nick Tilsley and Nick's partner Leanne Battersby, along with Leanne's adopted son Simon Barlow, have been trying to coax him out.
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They went to GP Susan Gaddas for help who said she would refer him for talking therapy.
But in Wednesday night's double bill (November 10) Sam finally emerged from his room to share a warm hug with Leanne, played by Jane Danson, after she offered some comforting words through the door.
"Awww every time I see Sam, I wanna cry #Corrie. He’s playing the character so well," tweeted one fan.
"Sam but the hug he gave Leanne," said another with a broken heart emoji.
"Sam hugging Leanne!!!" cried another.
"Sam hugging Leanne though what a beautiful moment," commented a fourth.
"Well it’s happened, a soap character has finally broke me!! Thank you Sam!!" tweeted another soap watcher.
And another commented: "Leanne and Sam omg I’m crying."
Rising star Jude arrived in Weatherfield to play Sam a year ago.
He won best newcomer at the National Television Awards in September, before the heartbreaking scenes when the boy had to say a heart-breaking goodbye to his mum.
And fans of the ITV soap are predicting more awards are coming his way.
"You've made me cry so much recently," said one fan about his recent harrowing scenes.
"One of the best young actors ever. Corrie won when they got hold of you. Well done Jude.
"Hats off to you. More awards your way."
Another praised: "This wee boy deserves all the awards."
And another said: "Sam's breaking my heart. Give that kid all the awards."
