Colson Smith, who plays Craig Tinker on Coronation Street, has announced his departure from the ITV soap after 14 years. The 26-year-old actor revealed on Instagram that his character's time on the cobbles will end in 2025, stating he was told last autumn that his storyline would conclude.
Smith, who joined the show at age 11, expressed gratitude for his experience, saying he feels 'incredibly lucky' to have grown up on the set. His exit follows a trend of cast changes, with new producer Kate Brooks hinting at 'unexpected' departures this year.
Fans are now concerned about the future of Smith's podcast, 'On The Sofa with Colson, Jack and Ben', which he hosts with co-stars Jack P. Shepherd and Ben Price. Social media comments questioned whether the podcast can continue if Smith leaves the show, with one user joking that Shepherd 'doesn’t talk to people who leave the show'.
The podcast's Instagram account reposted Smith's announcement, calling him 'our king' and referencing an 'exciting next chapter'. However, no official statement has been made about the podcast's future.
Recent departures from Coronation Street include Lisa George (Beth Tinker) and Helen Worth (Gail Platt), with reports that Sue Cleaver (Eileen Grimshaw) may also leave. Smith's exit adds to the cast shake-up in 2025.
