The soap star has called for changes in the law to protect the identity of the accused until proven guilty.
Helen Flanagan showed her support for her co-star
Michael Le Vell, who played mechanic Kevin Webster in Coronation Street for 30 years, was arrested and charged with 19 sexual offences last month. Flanagan played his on-screen daughter Rosie Webster in the soap for 11 years.
Talking to a British newspaper, she said:
'Its absolutely vile what is being said about him'
“It’s absolutely vile what is being said about him. It sickens you to the stomach and it is so upsetting what that man has been through.”
Voicing her support, she added: “It's terrible. I have spoken to him and he knows I am there for him.”
The sex offence allegations were initially made in September 2011, although no charges were bought against Le Vell due to insufficient evidence. The case was reviewed and reopened in February 2013, with Le Vell being arrested and charged with 19 sexual offences.
Following the initial allegations Le Vell said:
'I am innocent of these charges and intend to fight them vigorously'
“I am innocent of these charges and intend to fight them vigorously.”
Flanagan said Le Vell just wants his life back and wants to ‘be able to get up in the morning and go to work’.
The 22-year-old hit out at the current laws, saying:
“I don’t think things like that should be in the press until it’s proven”.
Le Vell, 45, is due in court on Wednesday.