Coronation Street actor Bill Roache has opened up on the harrowing storyline as his character Ken Barlow deals with son Peter Barlow's alcoholism.
Peter recently relapsed and his desperate family have been following him around trying to get him to stop drinking.
Ken even hands his picture around to off-licenses and bars but Peter still manages to find a way to get drunk.
Daniel Osbourne offered to give Peter his liver in a transplant if they are a match, so willing is he to help his friend.
But Peter is consumed with self pity and does not think he deserves that, so so he called at the solicitors where he told Adam Barlow to draw up an ‘Advance Decision to Refuse Treatment’ declaration.
Next week, Peter decides to stop drinking for good, but his body is so dependant on alcohol he has to have some administered every day otherwise he could die.
Bill explained: "In order to help Peter properly they have to manage his withdrawal from alcohol which means he has to have some alcohol every day and it is such a difficult situation for Ken to deal with.
"They are walking in a minefield."
He added: "It is a very good storyline. I have known people in this situation.
"I have had friends who have been alcoholics and it is true what they say, you can't do anything until they turn round and say help me.
"Ken is trying and he can't bear that feeling of impotence of not being able to help his son and just having to sit back and do nothing until Peter accepts he needs and wants their help.
"He is so disappointed that Daniel's offer didn't have the desired effect with Peter."
He added that Peter continues to see his father as the enemy for quite some time as the heartbreaking storyline goes on.
* Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday nights at 7.30pm and 8.30pm on ITV
