Jack - //Coronation Street is ITVs flagship programme. It is sold around the world and it would do the company no good whatsoever to appear to be seen of tacitly approving of outbursts like this by not doing anything. //
That is an important point to consider.
Soap actors have pretty seriously binding contracts. They include not advertising or endorsing products, having public appearances agreed, not changing their appearance without notice and agreement – not growing or shaving or facial hair, tattoos, piercings, surgery and so on (remember Lynn Perrie?)
And no doubt built in are clauses about bringing the show into disrepute, which this clearly was – and that will be a sacking offence.
Should it be a sacking offence? Mindful of jack's post, I would say yes.