Coronation Street has confirmed that newcomer Mick Michaelis, played by Joe Layton, will be leaving the ITV soap, with his final scenes set to air in late July. The character's departure comes just months after his arrival, making his stint a relatively brief one.
Insiders have told The Mirror that Mick's exit was planned from the very beginning, with the actor aware of his contract length from the moment he joined. A source said: "There is no shock exit, Joe knew from the start how long he would be on the show for. His contract length was revealed to him the moment he joined so this isn't a surprise to him or Corrie bosses."
Mick entered the show for a specific storyline, which will continue to unfold until his departure. A flashback special featuring Mick and other characters is still to air, and it is thought this will pave the way for his exit. Speculation remains over whether his on-screen wife Lou will also leave, with rumours that newcomer Brody could be her son, possibly with detective Kit Green as the father.
Before his exit, Mick is set to cause further drama with various residents, including Debbie Webster and Chesney Brown. The character's behaviour has also affected Lou and Daisy Midgeley, who is herself leaving the show. Some fans have speculated whether Mick could be linked to the rumoured summer death of Craig Tinker, though this remains unconfirmed.
An insider teased: "Mick is explosive and can be the catalyst for so many twists and turns. Corrie are staying quiet on exact details for now, but fans can expect edge-on-their-seat drama and plenty of chaos on the way." The source added: "Mick might only be here for a short time not a long time, but his scenes are certainly not short on carnage and drama."
Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITV X.
