![Ryan Russell will play Michael Bailey in Coronation Street (ITV/PA)STRICT EMBARGO – No Use Before 0001hrs Saturday 06/04/19Coronation StreetNew Bailey FamilyDad Edison Bailey (Trevor Michael Georges)Mum Aggie Bailey (Lorna Laidlaw)Older son Michael Bailey (Ryan Russell) Yellow JacketYounger son James Bailey (Nathan Graham).Picture contact – David.crook@itv.comPhotographer – Mark BruceThis photograph is (C) ITV Plc and can only be reproduced for editorial purposes directly in connection with the programme or event mentioned above, or ITV plc. Once made available by ITV plc Picture Desk, this photograph can be reproduced once only up until the transmission [TX] date and no reproduction fee will be charged. Any subsequent usage may incur a fee. This photograph must not be manipulated [excluding basic cropping] in a manner which alters the visual appearance of the person photographed deemed detrimental or inappropriate by ITV plc Picture Desk. This photograph must not be syndicated to any other company, publication or website, or permanently archived, without the express written permission of ITV Picture Desk. Full Terms and conditions are available on www.itv.com/presscentre/itvpictures/terms](https://wpcluster.dctdigital.com/pressandjournal/wp-content/uploads/sites/54/2019/04/f37cbb78-d4a6-418a-9b6c-6051f3eac0e4-496x372.jpg)
Coronation Street newcomer Ryan Russell has said he is “truly sorry” after he was accused of sharing sexist messages on Twitter.
The former CBeebies presenter is due to join the soap in June as Michael Bailey but will now have to meet soap bosses over the alleged offensive posts.
He said in a statement: “First and foremost, I want to take ownership for my behaviour and apologise for some of the language that I’ve previously used on social media.
“I knew some of the words I’d used as a younger man hadn’t been appropriate, therefore some time ago I took action and deleted any tweets that I felt used language that didn’t reflect my values, outlook or principles. Unfortunately these historical tweets have resurfaced.
“I pride myself on being a respectful person who believes in equal rights for all, irrespective of gender, ethnicity, religion, class and sexuality.
“I’m embarrassed by some of my previous social media posts but hope to be able to use my platform to educate, inspire and engage others.
“As with anything in life, I believe that it’s about self-reflection, education and growth. I’m truly sorry and believe that the tweets are not an accurate representation of the person that I am, or aspire to be.”
A spokeswoman for Coronation Street said: “We will be investigating this matter further and meeting with Ryan when everyone returns from the Easter break on Tuesday.”
The Baileys were announced as a new family in Coronation Street earlier this month.
They will be the first black family in the soap’s history and are due to arrive on the cobbles in early June when they move into No 3, having bought the house from Norris Cole.