Can you believe it? Coronation Street is experiencing some major cast shake-ups, and fans are both shocked and saddened. Leading the charge is Colson Smith, who’s set to bid farewell to the cobbles after 14 memorable years portraying Craig Tinker. According to insiders, Smith was first informed about his exit last autumn, and his character's storyline is expected to come to a close by early summer 2025.
"Colson was told last autumn about Craig being written out of the show; he will be on screen until early summer. He is hugely grateful to have had 14 years working on the show and is excited about what promises to be a brilliant exit storyline," commented the insider.
Expressing his deep appreciation for the role, Smith told The Mirror, "I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street. I've loved every single second of my stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world." He emphasized his enthusiasm for the upcoming exit story, stating, "For me, this is the end of the beginning. I genuinely can't wait to see what chapter two has in store for me."
Known for his dramatic weight loss and transformation, Smith has shared struggles with his previous unhealthy relationship with food, particularly after moving to Manchester. This backdrop makes his character's exit even more poignant as he embraces new beginnings beyond the show.
It’s not just Smith who is leaving; the departures from Coronation Street have been significant this year. The soap has already seen Lisa George depart as Beth Tinker, and veteran actress Helen Worth has also retired her iconic role as Gail Platt after fifty years. Now, as reports suggest Sue Cleaver, who played Eileen Grimshaw, is also preparing to say goodbye after 25 years, fans are left with mixed feelings about the future of their favorite characters.
The series producer, Iain MacLeod, hinted at these changes last month, stating, "There are a few exits this year, and some unexpected ones will send shockwaves through the show." Such claims hold weight as Smith's exit joins the list of beloved characters bowing out, signaling changes for the long-standing series.
Another recent departure is Luca Toolan, who portrayed Mason Radcliffe. His exit is shrouded with drama as Mason's character faced a brutal end due to knife crime, leading to emotional reflections from Toolan. "Of course when I first heard, there was a mixture of emotions because I was sad...but equally I was really excited and honored to be part of this storyline because it’s an incredibly important issue," he said. His dedication to the craft, especially through challenging storylines, showcases the depth of commitment from the cast.
Changes at Coronation Street aren't limited to these actors alone. The show will also see the exit of Paul Foreman, who is tragically losing his battle with motor neuron disease. His storyline has been particularly emotional for both the cast and fans alike, as viewers prepare for poignant scenes as he fights for his life.
Summer Spellman’s character also departed after receiving a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to study abroad, illustrating how life events are paralleling the actors’ real lives with those they portray.
Fans have also noted Simon Barlow's unsettling spiral following his father Peter’s abrupt departure from the show. Peter’s exit occurred on Christmas Day, which has left Simon grappling with unanswered questions and emotional fallout as his character's storyline begins to conclude. The narrative decisions seem to reflect real-life circumstances, serving to keep audiences deeply engaged.
To add to this assemblage of change, popular character Alya Nazir is anticipated to leave as actress Sair Khan prepares for maternity leave. Following her, Cleaver’s temporary exit to star in the UK tour of Sister Act The Musical also indicates the show's evolution, as key actors transition to new opportunities.
Through these departures, Coronation Street is embarking on uncharted territory. It is reflective of the show's ability to navigate character arcs, with every exit potentially marking the end of previous chapters, but also promising invigorated storylines yet to come. Will this reshape the very essence of the iconic show? Time will tell.
Despite the heartaches and goodbyes, Colson Smith summed up the sentiment perfectly, remarking on his growth and life lessons learned during his time on the show. "I’ve learned pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home," he reflected. Indeed, these cast changes not only impact the narratives of Coronation Street but resonate deeply within the hearts of its devoted viewership, reminding us all of the fragility of our connections—both on-screen and off.