Ep 103. Coronation Street: Christmas 1972

Coronation Street: Christmas 1972 is the thirteenth season's one hundred and third episode of the long-running British soap opera Coronation Street. The episode takes place during the festive season of 1972, following the everyday lives and dramas of several working-class families living in the fictional town of Weatherfield.

The episode opens with Elsie Tanner, one of the show's iconic characters, waking up to a chaotic household on Christmas morning. Her teenage grandson, Paul, has invited his girlfriend over for breakfast, much to Elsie's disapproval. As she bickers with him about not being able to provide for the extra guest, her lodger Gail Potter, played by future Hollywood star Helen Worth, drops a bombshell by announcing that she's pregnant. Elsie is shocked by the news and wonders how she'll pay the bills, to which Gail replies that her baby's father has promised to help them out financially.

Meanwhile, the Barlow family is preparing to visit Ken's estranged father, Frank, at his new home in Wales. Ken is reluctant to go, as he blames Frank for his mother's death. He confides in his wife, Janet, that he's afraid of facing the truth about his parents' relationship, but decides to go anyway. However, things don't go as planned when they arrive at Frank's house, and Ken confronts his father about his past mistakes.

The Ogdens and the Sugdens are also celebrating Christmas in their traditional ways. Hilda is busy cooking a feast for their family and friends, while Annie and Jack are hosting a Christmas party at their farmhouse. However, both families face unexpected challenges. Hilda's turkey is ruined, and she has to resort to buying an inferior one from the corner shop, much to her dismay. The Sugdens, on the other hand, have to deal with a group of unruly teenagers who have crashed their party, causing chaos and frustration.

As the day goes on, the residents of Coronation Street come together to celebrate the festive season, exchange gifts, and attend church. Several romantic storylines come to a head, as well. Ray Langton, one of the show's most popular characters, proposes to Deirdre on Christmas Day, and she accepts. Similarly, Bert Tilsley and Ivy Brennan finally confess their love for each other and share a kiss under the mistletoe.

As the episode draws to a close, the residents of Weatherfield reflect on the year that's passed and look forward to a new year with hope and optimism. The final scene shows Hilda, alone in her house, gazing at a Christmas card from her husband, Stan, who has left her for a younger woman. The scene is a poignant reminder that Christmas can be a time of both joy and sadness, as the characters of Coronation Street grapple with life's hardships and moments of happiness.

Overall, Coronation Street: Christmas 1972 embodies the warmth and spirit of the holiday season, while showcasing the show's trademark mix of drama, romance, and humor. The episode is an excellent example of why the show has endured for over 60 years, remaining a beloved cultural touchstone for millions of viewers around the world.