SAD NEWS: Shocking Truth Behind Coronation Street Icon’s Firing Leaves Fans Heartbroken
Craig Tinker’s time on the cobbles has come to a shocking end, leaving Coronation Street viewers reeling as Colson Smith prepares to bid farewell after an incredible 14 years on the soap. It looks like the new show producers of Corrie are making changes to the current scenario, and it will take away fan-favorite Craig too. Despite this, the copper character is going to have a ‘brilliant exit.’ Keep scrolling to know more!
Coronation Street Icon Craig Is Leaving Cobbles, Here’s Why
Coronation Street star Colson Smith, who portrays the role of Craig Tinker, is being axed after 14 big years. As per reports, the beloved actor has been taking this news rather well and assured his fans that he is looking forward to new opportunities. Smith also promised a ‘brilliant’ exit for his cobbles’ character. All of this comes after the new producer, Kate Brooks, seems determined to make some cast changes.

It’s not just Colson, but Metro UK also confirmed the departure of iconic Debbie Webster for the coming year. Spoilers relay that the character will battle with dementia in an iconic storyline and then bid farewell to the ITV show. In addition, Sue Cleaver also recently confirmed that she’s leaving her Eileen Grimshaw role after 25 years. Showrunner Kate told the outlet that there will be a few more exits this year, which will shock fans.
As for Colson, he is also known for his stint on Celebrity Big Brother. While speaking to Mail Online about his exit from Corrie, he said, ‘Autumn last year, I was told that Craig Tinker’s time on the Cobbles is to come to an end in 2025.’ He also reminisced about his 14 years as a resident on the soap and highlighted that he feels to have grown up in and around the greatest street.

The actor also added, ‘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 the end of the beginning.’ According to sources, the star’s final scenes will play out later this year. For more such updates on Coronation Street, keep checking Soap Opera Daily! Did you like Craig? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
Colson Smith’s exit from Coronation Street marks the end of an era for fans of Craig Tinker, who has been a beloved character on the cobbles for 14 years. The news has left viewers shocked, as it comes amidst a broader shake-up within the show’s cast following the arrival of new producer Kate Brooks. Despite his departure, Colson has assured fans that his exit will be a ‘brilliant’ one, offering a fitting farewell for his character.
Craig Tinker’s Departure
Colson Smith, who has portrayed Craig since 2008, revealed that he was informed last autumn that his character’s time on the soap would come to an end in 2025. Reflecting on his time with Coronation Street, Colson shared how much the show has shaped his life, calling it a place where he grew up, both professionally and personally. His departure is bittersweet, as he looks forward to new opportunities while also acknowledging how important his time on the cobbles has been.
While Craig’s exit has left fans saddened, Colson’s excitement about his upcoming exit storyline hints at a closure that will pay tribute to his 14 years on the show. His final scenes will air later this year, and it’s clear that this will be a significant moment for fans who have watched Craig evolve from a young, aspiring policeman to a central figure in the community.
Cast Changes and the Future of Coronation Street
Colson’s departure is part of a larger trend of significant cast changes under new producer Kate Brooks. Alongside Craig’s exit, Coronation Street fans can also expect the departure of Debbie Webster, who will be involved in a powerful storyline dealing with dementia before bidding farewell to the show. Sue Cleaver, who has portrayed Eileen Grimshaw for 25 years, also recently confirmed that she will be leaving the soap, marking another iconic exit.
Brooks has hinted that these exits will be part of a larger restructuring of the show, with more changes expected this year. While the departures of fan-favorite characters are always difficult for viewers, it seems that the new direction for Coronation Street is geared toward fresh and compelling storylines.
Craig’s Legacy
Colson Smith’s portrayal of Craig Tinker has been one of the longest-running and most endearing roles on Coronation Street. Fans have followed Craig’s ups and downs, from his early days as a nervous and earnest young man to his more recent role as a trusted member of the police force. His relationship with characters like Faye Windass, and the complicated dynamics with his family, have added depth to his character and kept viewers invested in his journey.
As Craig prepares to leave the cobbles, fans will no doubt reflect on the significant moments that defined his character and the friendships that evolved over the years. His exit will be a poignant moment in Coronation Street history, as he was a beloved character who grew up in front of the audience’s eyes.
Looking Ahead
While it’s always tough to say goodbye to long-time characters, Colson Smith’s departure opens up the possibility for fresh storylines and new characters to take center stage. As Coronation Street prepares to undergo a transformation with the departure of key characters, fans can look forward to new, exciting developments in the coming months. For now, fans can hold onto the memories of Craig Tinker, a character who has been part of the heartbeat of Coronation Street for over a decade.