We know Cassie has a heart – but we need to see it more (Picture: ITV)

Since her arrival in Coronation Street last year, Cassie Plummer (Claire Sweeney) has caused a never-ending stream of chaos for her mother Evelyn (Maureen Lipman) and long-lost son Tyrone Dobbs (Alan Halsall).  

The ITV soap seems committed to keeping her around. But so far, Cassie has only taken small steps forward followed by massive setbacks, and they’re all of her own making. 

At the moment, there’s far more malice on display than there is warmth – yet we know the latter exists within the character. So it’s about time her redemption arc truly began. 

Thanks to star Claire Sweeney’s compelling portrayal, we know that Cassie isn’t meant to be a villain. So why is she being written like one? She clearly loves Tyrone and granddaughters Hope (Isabella Flanagan) and Ruby (Billie Naylor), and cares about her mum in spite of their complex history. 

The emotional scenes between Cassie and Evelyn during the former’s debut earned well-deserved acclaim as the pair picked apart their relationship. This provided a sturdy foundation to build from; but there simply hasn’t been enough balance on Cassie’s part, and this is what’s missing. 

Cassie was billed as a recovering addict who ultimately wants to be a better person for her family. But any good deed, such as finding a thoughtful Christmas present or trying to shut down a puppy farm, has only led to drama and trouble for Abi Webster (Sally Carman-Duttine) and Evelyn, respectively. 

Adding insult to injury, fellow addict Abi has been one of Cassie’s biggest supporters, covering for her over a theft and giving her chance after chance to keep her job at the garage. But Cassie repaid Abi by framing her over a damaged car and then spying on her in an attempt to wreck her marriage to Kevin (Michael Le Vell)! 

Anger and nastiness re traits we need to see less of (Picture: ITV)

Cassie has an obvious crush on Kev, and given his history with infidelity we dread the idea that Corrie might just go there again, or have Cassie constantly stirring the pot whether he’s tempted or not. Before her behaviour has a chance to reach that stage, though, we’re calling for her to calm down her antics. 

Viewers aren’t taking kindly to her treatment of Abi, who endeared herself to fans through her battle to turn things around in her own turbulent life. Then there’s Evelyn’s recent arrest for assault, a crime actually committed by Cassie who allowed her elderly mother to endure hours of questioning at the police station.  

In the beginning, Cassie’s mischievous nature was entertaining. This has been severely overshadowed by her actions, making her appear cruel and callous. We need to see more of the fun and less of the foul, self-centred exploits. 

Cassie’s decision to treat Hope to a nose piercing for her birthday, for example, was misguided, but there were no ill intentions involved. Had Corrie spent more time displaying Cassie’s naivety, rather than painting her as a narcissist, this would be an entirely different discussion. 

Cassie’s treatment of Abi is winning her no fans (Picture: ITV)

Brookside icon Claire Sweeney has Corrie magic – Cassie just needs a chance to display it (Picture: WireImage)

Think back to the first time Cassie set eyes on Hope and Ruby during their Little Big Shotz show, and there was an immediate family pull as she looked mesmerised by her grandchildren, and desperate to bond with Tyrone. 

This vulnerable, important aspect of the character is in danger of getting lost as Cassie continues to prioritise herself. Of course, we have to see her flaws before she can be redeemed, but Cassie’s mistakes are piling up, and we’re wondering where and when they will end.

Surely we’ve reached the limit of how much trouble she can cause in quick succession – at least for now! 

Perhaps Cassie could do with a solid friendship to guide her, much like the one Abi found with Sally Metcalfe (Sally Dynevor). The highly moral Roy Cropper (David Neilson) would be an ideal candidate, but his attempts to steer Cassie in the right direction have so far been ignored. 

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Tracy McDonald (Kate Ford) might be the right fit, although their influence on each other could be disastrous. However, to a certain extent, Tracy changed her ways some years ago, and might just be able to help Cassie settle down without stifling her naughtier side; something we certainly don’t want her to lose completely. 

Tyrone’s wife Fiz (Jennie McAlpine) is set to return in the coming weeks, and Claire has already teased how Fiz’s comeback will change the dynamics of the household. We can’t imagine that Fiz will be impressed by Cassie’s attitude, but if Cassie wants to stick around, she’ll have to tone down her behaviour against the stalwarts of the Street. 

Cassie deserves the chance to change course for the better. Coronation Street just needs to ditch her nasty escapades and focus on subtler, character-driven stories. Combine this with her light-hearted mischief and Claire’s strong performances, and there’s the potential for Corrie magic. 

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Claire Sweeney’s performance means there’s potential for Corrie magic – but only if changes are made fast!