“Coronation Street” Fans Rally Behind Beloved Duo After British Soap Awards Disappointment

The 2025 British Soap Awards was a night of glitz, emotion, and fierce competition—but for fans of Coronation Street, it ended on a bittersweet note. While the long-running ITV soap may have only taken home a single award, it was the powerful and compelling partnership of Carla Connor and DS Lisa Swain—portrayed by Alison King and Vicky Myers—that stirred the deepest passions among viewers, despite missing out on a well-deserved accolade.

The prestigious event, held at London’s historic Hackney Empire on Saturday, May 31, marked the long-awaited return of the British Soap Awards after a two-year hiatus. Hosted with signature charm by Jane McDonald, the ceremony brought together the best of British soap—from the gritty realism of EastEnders to the emotional highs of Emmerdale and the vibrant drama of Hollyoaks. The event aired on ITV on June 5, allowing millions at home to relive the highs and heartbreaks of the night.

EastEnders Dominates, Corrie Left Wanting

It was EastEnders that stole the spotlight, sweeping the awards with an impressive eight wins, including the coveted Best British Soap. In a poignant and nostalgic moment, legendary actor Sir David Jason—best known for his role in Only Fools and Horses—presented the top prize, reinforcing the prestige of the evening. The BBC soap, celebrating its 40th anniversary this year, proved its enduring power with storylines that struck a cultural and emotional chord with both fans and critics alike.

Hollyoaks also had its moment in the limelight, picking up three awards, including Best Newcomer for Isabelle Smith. The young actress has captured hearts with her portrayal of Frankie Osborne, a character with deep roots in the soap’s complex familial history.

Emmerdale and Coronation Street, however, found themselves trailing behind in terms of trophies. While Emmerdale celebrated 16-year-old Amelia Flanagan’s win for Best Young Performer as April Windsor, Corrie’s sole recognition came in the form of an Outstanding Achievement Award given to David Neilson for his iconic role as Roy Cropper—a character whose quiet dignity and moral compass have become staples of the show.

The Carla & Swain Snub That Sparked a Fan Uprising

But perhaps the most talked-about moment of the evening—at least among the devoted Corrie fandom—was the outcome of the Best On-Screen Partnership category. Fans had rallied around Alison King and Vicky Myers, whose nuanced portrayal of Carla Connor and DS Lisa Swain had developed into one of the most captivating dynamics on screen over the past year. Their pairing, affectionately dubbed “Swarla” by fans, had drawn attention not only for its emotional depth but for breaking new ground in how female relationships—professional, personal, and potentially romantic—are portrayed in soap operas.

Ultimately, the award went to EastEnders veterans Rudolph Walker and Angela Wynter, for their portrayal of Patrick and Yolande Trueman. The duo, whose chemistry and history span decades, were certainly worthy winners. Yet, the decision left Corrie fans disheartened, believing that the boundary-pushing performances of King and Myers deserved to be recognized.

A Social Media Storm: Fans Declare Their Winners

Following the announcement, fans took to social media in droves to express their disappointment—and undying support for Swarla. The #Swarla hashtag quickly trended across platforms, with clips, tributes, and heartfelt messages celebrating the duo’s impact.

One passionate fan, @Jesslillianx1, tweeted, “#swarla may not have won best onscreen partnership, but here’s a few videos I took. So before you watch it on TV, we can all see how loved our girls are. We know the true winners.” The sentiment was echoed by @swarlanations, who wrote, “I’ll never understand it. For twelve months work, for that response and the panel said ‘not this year, Huns’.”

Many fans pointed out the pair’s ability to transcend typical soap tropes, offering something raw and refreshing. “Partnership so big, so legendary, so romantic, so iconic—you have the Americans waking up at 2 AM three days a week just to watch your scenes,” posted @ameliasbrennan. “Swarla, you will always be famous!”

Even among the praise for the winning EastEnders duo, fans maintained hope for future recognition. “I’d have loved if Swarla won,” wrote @Sam_LFC23, “but I am happy for Rudolph and Angela. They’ve got a great relationship over 30 years and while not exciting, I enjoy watching them. Hopefully Swarla gets it next year.”

Why Swarla Mattered

The Swarla storyline, while still evolving, has captivated viewers for its authenticity and emotional stakes. Carla Connor, played with unwavering strength and complexity by Alison King, is a character who has weathered unimaginable storms—mental health struggles, corporate power plays, betrayal, and heartbreak. Enter DS Lisa Swain, played with restrained intensity by Vicky Myers, a woman whose investigative instincts mask a vulnerability that Carla is one of the few to glimpse.

Their chemistry is electric but understated. Whether sharing terse conversations in dimly lit interrogation rooms or quiet, emotionally charged moments outside the bounds of their respective roles, their dynamic feels lived-in, layered, and above all, real. It’s no wonder that fans have latched onto the pair—not just for what they represent, but for the space they’ve carved in the soap world for more diverse, emotionally intelligent female storytelling.

Looking Ahead

While this year’s British Soap Awards didn’t give Coronation Street the haul its fans hoped for, the evening made one thing clear: the power of fan passion remains as strong as ever. In an era where social media engagement can be as influential as awards, Carla and Swain have already won the hearts—and voices—of viewers worldwide.

As one fan eloquently put it: “They will ALWAYS be MY best onscreen partnership.” With a groundswell of support and plenty of story left to tell, perhaps next year will be Swarla’s time to shine.

And if the awards don’t follow suit? Their fans will be there regardless—watching, supporting, and believing in the power of two women who changed the game on Coronation Street.