Coronation Street star Claire Sweeney is set to depart the long-running ITV soap after a three-year tenure, with her character Cassie Plummer scheduled to leave the cobbles by the summer of 2026. The actress, who portrays the daughter of Evelyn Plummer and mother of Tyrone Dobbs, has not yet publicly commented on her exit from the programme.
ITV Confirms Departure with Promised 'Great Exit Storyline'
ITV has officially confirmed Sweeney's departure, assuring viewers that Cassie Plummer will remain on screen until the summer and will be given a "great exit storyline." The broadcaster has not disclosed specific plot details surrounding her character's departure, leaving fans to speculate about how Cassie's narrative will conclude.
Actress Focused on New Musical Role as Miss Hannigan
While remaining silent about her Coronation Street exit, Claire Sweeney has been actively promoting her new professional venture on social media. The actress is preparing to take on the role of Miss Hannigan in the upcoming UK and Ireland tour of the classic musical Annie, suggesting her departure from the soap may be related to this theatrical commitment.
Mixed Fan Reactions to Underutilised Character
Viewers have expressed divided opinions about Sweeney's impending departure, with many suggesting her character Cassie Plummer was significantly underused during her three years on the show. Numerous fans have taken to social media platforms to express disappointment, arguing that the character possessed substantial untapped potential that was never fully explored by the writers.
Some loyal viewers have described themselves as "gutted" by the news, particularly those who appreciated the complex family dynamics Cassie brought to the Plummer-Dobbs household. The character's relationships with her mother Evelyn and son Tyrone provided numerous dramatic opportunities that some fans believe were not maximised during her tenure.
Coronation Street and Emmerdale Crossover Episode Coincides with Departure News
The announcement of Sweeney's exit comes alongside news of an unprecedented crossover event between Coronation Street and fellow ITV soap Emmerdale. Dubbed "Corriedale," this explosive special episode marks the first official collision between the two iconic British soaps, potentially creating additional narrative avenues for character departures and arrivals.
While it remains unclear whether Cassie Plummer's exit will connect to this crossover event, the timing has certainly generated additional speculation among dedicated soap enthusiasts. The crossover represents a significant moment in British television history, bringing together two of the nation's most beloved continuing dramas for the first time.
Claire Sweeney joined the Coronation Street cast in early 2023, quickly establishing Cassie Plummer as a troubled but ultimately sympathetic character struggling with addiction issues and complex family relationships. Her departure this summer will mark the end of a three-year chapter for both the actress and the character she brought to life on Britain's most famous street.
