There was a strong reaction to Fair City’s depiction of domestic violence last night

Last night’s special episode of ‘Fair City’ saw couple Christiano and Will go to couple’s therapy

Social media users have applauded Fair City‘s depiction of domestic violence in a special episode that aired last night.

The RTÉ drama’s latest storyline sees couple Will and Christiano depict what domestic abuse can look like in a relationship.

The episode came with a prior warning from RTÉ, along with information for those suffering from domestic abuse.

After the session, Will attacks Christiano in their home.

"I'm afraid…"#FairCity pic.twitter.com/aHXka48Tz3

— RTÉ One (@RTEOne) October 16, 2019

Throughout the episode, we see Will’s paranoia of Christiano rise, as he becomes convinced that Christiano is conspiring against him. He coaches him on what to say to the counsellor so as not to raise suspicion about his behaviour.

Christiano arrives at the counselling session alone and begins to let his guard down to therapist Maddie, telling her that he’s there because he’s afraid. Will then arrives and takes charge of the session, alerting Maddie to his behaviour.

When Will finds out that Christiano had talked privately to Maddie, he becomes aggressive and prevents Christiano from leaving the apartment.

He begins to explain how, growing up in 1980s’ Dublin, he had struggled with his sexuality for most of his life, and describes feeling regret at his decision to be in a relationship with Christiano, as he is now estranged from his family for being gay.

When Christiano tries to comfort him, Will attacks Christiano and throws slurs at his partner.

Raise awareness

The stars of Fair City have said that they hope the storyline will raise awareness and encourage viewers who may be dealing with a similar situation to seek help.

Actor John Cronin, who plays Will, said to RTÉ: “Will growing up in the ’80s in Dublin internalised a lot of homophobia that he had been hearing and had suppressed the side of himself that was attracted to men, and now it has ended up coming out later in life in a destructive way.

What had started as a double life with issues of control, he now blames Cristiano for the loss of his family and that’s what we see really coming out in tonight’s episode.”

Co-star Rodrigo Ternevoy, who plays Christiano, said: “It’s a very strong yet dark storyline and I really hope it will bring light to the issue of domestic abuse so that people going through similar can reach out for help. Tackling domestic abuse with same-sex partners will hopefully open up the topic for discussion.”

The reaction

The harrowing storyline received a strong reaction from fans of the show, who praised the actors and writers for their depiction of the intricacies of domestic abuse.

I know it's only a soap but this happens in reall life every day. I just want to give christiano a hug my heart goes out to him, will is a vile character. They both deserve awards #FairCity

— Tara (@Tara36732231) October 16, 2019

I dont watch @faircity but I just saw the last 3 minutes of tonight's episode & it was amazingly done. I'm distraught at the thoughts of people going through #domesticviolence #faircity I hope this helps people. @faircityfans

— Niamh O'Mahoney (@NiamhOM) October 16, 2019

Some viewers opened up about how the show reminded them of their own past experiences of domestic abuse.

I shared my story on my Facebook page and I got messages from people who are going/gone through the same as I did. It's very emotional and another reason that I run these accounts, it feels good to help people #faircity pic.twitter.com/4V5SubjKAf

— Fair City Fans (@faircityfans) October 16, 2019

Script editor at RTÉ Sarah Finlay said she was “so, so proud” to have worked on the episode, and congratulated the actors on their “deep and honest performances”.

I'm so, so proud to have been script editor on this episode. Hard to watch, but it feels important. Carmel Callan is a genius. Huge congratulations on your deep and honest performances @RodrigoTernevoy and John Cronin, supported by the brilliant @NessaMatthews. #faircity https://t.co/aqt5OgRr2X

— Sarah Finlay (@sarahfinlay82) October 16, 2019

If you have been affected by the issues raised in last night’s episode, you can contact AnyMan‘s national helpline at 01-5543811, or the Women’s Aid helpline on 1800 341 900.

Featured image from RTÉ

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