Coronation Street Star Confirms “Difficult Times Ahead” for Newcomer Ben Driscoll

The cobbles of Coronation Street have never been short on drama — and newcomer Ben Driscoll, played by Shameless star Aaron McCusker,

is about to find himself at the center of an emotional and explosive family storm. McCusker has teased that “difficult times” are on the horizon for Ben as he struggles to balance

his loyalties between his strong-willed wife, Eva Price, and his equally formidable mother, Maggie Driscoll.

Ben’s arrival in Weatherfield earlier this week marked the start of a new chapter for the beloved Rovers Return. Having bought the iconic pub for Eva, his wife,

Ben seemed determined to give her the fairytale homecoming she always dreamed of. But beneath his charming exterior and loving family-man image,

there’s already evidence of a darker, more complex side. A recent tense encounter with Carl Webster exposed Ben’s hidden temper — a side that could spell trouble for everyone close to him.

A Family Divided

Eva’s return to the street was meant to be triumphant. The former barmaid was ecstatic to be back behind the bar, hosting a celebratory lock-in that promised laughter, music, and nostalgia. But her joy was cut short by the unexpected arrival of Ben’s mother, Maggie, who came with an agenda — and a checkbook. Having helped fund the purchase of the pub, Maggie made it clear she expected to have a say in how things were run.

The resulting power struggle was nothing short of explosive. Eva, never one to back down, stood her ground, while Maggie made it known that she was the real force behind the deal. Caught in the middle, Ben tried to calm the situation by declaring Eva’s name would go above the door and that his mother would remain a “silent partner.” But as Coronation Street fans know all too well, silence is rarely golden on the cobbles — and Maggie Driscoll doesn’t seem like a woman who intends to stay in the background.

Ben’s Struggle Between Love and Loyalty

Speaking about the emotional tug-of-war ahead, McCusker revealed the depth of Ben’s conflict.
“He’s got every reason to be stuck between his mum and Eva because he loves them both dearly — and there’s nothing worse than being caught in the middle,” the actor explained. “He can see that Maggie doesn’t treat Eva very well, but he’s terrified to step in. His mum raised him on her own, and he feels indebted to her. But deep down, he wishes she’d back off and let him and Eva have their life together.”

The dynamic promises to bring rich, emotional storytelling to Coronation Street, exploring themes of loyalty, guilt, and the invisible strings that bind families together. For Ben, the challenge isn’t just about choosing sides — it’s about protecting his marriage without alienating the woman who sacrificed everything for him.

McCusker added, “I don’t know what way it’s going to go, but I can see difficult times ahead.”

Trouble Brewing in the Rovers Return

With tensions already high, the Rovers is set to become ground zero for one of Weatherfield’s most combustible family feuds. Maggie’s controlling nature and Eva’s fiery independence are bound to clash, forcing Ben to play peacekeeper. But how long can he hold the line before something — or someone — breaks?

Eva, known for her resilience and sharp tongue, won’t take kindly to being undermined in her own pub. Meanwhile, Maggie’s interference could stir up resentment not just within the Driscoll family, but among the regulars, who are already gossiping about the new owners’ rocky start.

It’s classic Coronation Street storytelling — a mix of humor, heartbreak, and high drama, all unfolding within the walls of Britain’s most famous local.

The Man Behind the Character

For Aaron McCusker, best known for roles in Shameless and Bohemian Rhapsody, joining Coronation Street marks a thrilling new chapter. The actor admitted he’s relishing the chance to explore Ben’s emotional layers and his complicated relationships.

“Ben’s got this mix of warmth and unpredictability,” McCusker said. “He’s a good man at heart, but he’s also human. He gets angry, he gets scared, and he sometimes makes the wrong call for the right reasons. That’s what makes him interesting.”

McCusker also praised his on-screen chemistry with his co-stars, particularly Raph Akuwudike, who plays his eldest son Ollie. “I’ve got a lovely relationship on screen and off screen with Raph,” he said. “We’ve had some great moments together. If it weren’t for his kids, Ben would probably lose his way completely. It’s meant to be him guiding them, but really, they’re the ones keeping him grounded.”

The Driscoll Family’s Next Chapter

As the Driscolls settle into Weatherfield, fans can expect more revelations, power plays, and emotional confrontations. The introduction of Ben’s extended family — including his two sons and step-daughter — will add further complexity to the storyline. Their bond provides a rare glimpse of stability amid the chaos, offering Ben a sense of hope even as the world around him threatens to unravel.

Behind closed doors, however, things may not be as harmonious as they seem. As Maggie’s influence grows and Eva begins to feel isolated, Ben will be forced to make a choice — and the consequences could be devastating for everyone involved.

With Coronation Street known for its gripping family sagas, viewers can expect this storyline to become one of the show’s most talked-about arcs this year. From the emotional weight of Ben’s divided loyalties to the fiery confrontations between Eva and Maggie, the drama at the Rovers Return is just getting started.

A Storm Brewing on the Cobbles

In true Coronation Street fashion, what began as a feel-good homecoming for Eva and Ben is now spiraling into a tale of control, sacrifice, and emotional warfare. McCusker’s promise of “difficult times ahead” sets the stage for explosive episodes filled with heartbreak, redemption, and perhaps even betrayal.

Will Ben find the courage to stand up to his mother? Can Eva hold onto her dream of running the Rovers without losing herself — or her marriage — in the process? And will Maggie ever truly let go of her son, or is she determined to pull the strings no matter the cost?