Catherine Tyldesley is leaving her role as First Officer Kate Woods in Channel 5's cosy crime drama The Good Ship Murder, following her return to Coronation Street. The actress will depart the series in its upcoming fourth season, leaving co-star Shayne Ward's character, cabaret singer and former police officer Jack Grayling, to solve mysteries alone aboard the luxury Mediterranean cruise ship MSC Virtuosa.
The show, known for its light-hearted approach to crime, exotic locations, and the romantic tension between the two leads, has yet to reveal whether Kate and Jack will share a kiss before her exit. Tyldesley is set to film her emotional final scenes in Malta this spring, making a 'special appearance' at the start of the new season.
Before joining The Good Ship Murder, Tyldesley was best known for playing barmaid Eva Price on Coronation Street. She returned to the cobbles last year as part of a sexual abuse storyline involving her stepson Will Driscoll and predatory teacher Megan Walsh. Her character is expected to remain on the soap.
Other soap stars who have appeared on The Good Ship Murder include Coronation Street's Claire Sweeney, who played cruise director Beverly Carnell, and former Hollyoaks actor Ross Adams, who played Colin Smallwood. Season four is being billed as a 'brand new voyage packed with intrigue and danger' with new guest stars.
Channel 5 commissioning editor Greg Barnett said: 'Audiences have truly embraced the show’s unique combination of mystery, music and escapism, and we are excited to continue Jack’s journey with even more surprises and new faces in store.' Executive producer Andy Morgan added: 'It’s a bittersweet moment as we bid a fond farewell to a beloved character and friend, but we’re very excited about the next voyage for The Good Ship Murder.'
