Colson Smith, known for his beloved role as PC Craig Tinker, has confirmed he is set to depart from ITV's Coronation Street after 14 impactful years. The announcement has stirred emotions among fans who have watched Smith grow from a young boy to one of the soap's key characters.
Smith, who joined the cast when he was just 11, has said goodbye to the famous cobbled streets where he has made his mark. Through his character Craig, he faced significant battles, including those with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and personal life challenges, offering viewers relatable storylines over the years.
He shared the news of his departure via social media, expressing his heartfelt gratitude: "Autumn last year, I was told Craig Tinker's time on the Cobbles is to come to end in 2025. I've loved every single second of my 14 year stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world. I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street." His emotional farewell hints at the deep connection he has forged with both his character and the show.
Smith's exit follows soon after he became aware, later last autumn, of the plans to write him out as part of sweeping changes initiated by the show's new executive producer, Kate Brooks. Many fans are still reeling from the news as it adds to the uncertainty surrounding the future of other beloved characters; other recent exits have included characters like Beth Tinker, portrayed by Lisa George.
Reflecting on his time, Smith noted, "I've learned pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I'm excited to play out the exit story for Our Craigy. For me, this is just the end of the beginning. I genuinely can't wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me. LONG LIVE THE COBBLES!" His optimistic outlook suggests anticipation for new opportunities and projects after leaving the show.
Over the years, Smith underwent significant personal transformation, especially during and after the COVID-19 lockdown. He lost aproximadamente 10 stone and bravely shared his challenges concerning food and health. His candid reflections include the struggles he faced as he navigated the pressures of being in the public eye, particularly during his teen years. “When everyone else was at uni, I'm sat on bloody Deliveroo every night,” he recalled, emphasizing his struggle with unhealthy eating habits.
Smith's weight loss was not just about shedding pounds; it represented his desire to take control of his life and well-being. His determination saw him engaging actively with his health, incorporating fitness routines, and even producing his own documentary titled Bored of Being the Fat Kid to inspire others facing similar struggles.
Fans are eager to see how Craig's character will exit the show. The promise of a "brilliant exit storyline" assures viewers they can expect high emotional stakes. This narrative will, no doubt, provide closure for both Smith and the fans who have supported him throughout his time on the cobbles.
Smith expressed, “I feel incredibly lucky to have had the experiences I've had on the show, and I'm grateful to everyone who's joined me on this wonderful ride.” His departure symbolizes not just another exit from the beloved soap, but also marks the anticipation of change directly aligned with the new visions established by Brooks.
Such transitions at Coronation Street aren't uncommon—recently, other notable figures, including Helen Worth and Sue Cleaver, have exited, reflecting the show’s continual evolution and perhaps indicating new narrative directions for the future.
While fans come to terms with Smith's departure, he leaves behind cherished memories and moments for both the audience and actors who shared the stage with him. His impact on Coronation Street and the audience's hearts highlights why his role as Craig Tinker became so cherished over the years.
Fans can continue to catch Smith until early summer when his final episodes air on ITV. His legacy as Craig Tinker will undoubtedly resonate beyond the show's set amid the challenges and changes on the horizon for the series.