Manchester, England — Fans of the long-running television series Coronation Street are preparing for a heart-wrenching farewell as Colson Smith’s character, Craig Tinker, faces a violent and tragic exit. Smith, who has portrayed Craig since 2011, announced earlier this year that he would be leaving the iconic soap after more than a decade in Weatherfield.
With a sneak peek shared by ITV, viewers caught an early glimpse of the dramatic scenes leading up to Craig’s departure. The preview highlights a chilling voiceover from DS Swain, pondering how people might live differently if they knew their day was their last.
As the storyline unfolds, Craig is seen working closely with DC Kit Green in the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). However, unbeknownst to him, significant turmoil lies ahead, as the plot takes a dark turn that leaves Craig fighting for his life. Fans can expect the highly anticipated episodes to air during the week of May 19.
Reflecting on what lies ahead, Smith expressed enthusiasm about Craig’s final scenes. He shared that the storyline is aligned with the exit he envisioned for his character. "We are all really proud of what we filmed," he noted. The actor’s journey through this final act involved some intense scenes, utilizing special effects that left him covered in fake blood for days—an experience he described as both challenging and enjoyable.
Colson’s departure follows a series of announcements earlier this year regarding changes within the show’s cast, which revealed multiple actors would be leaving Coronation Street. In January, Smith disclosed that he learned of his exit in the autumn of 2024, giving him ample time to prepare for this significant transition in his acting career.
Smith has expressed deep gratitude for his time on the program, stating that he has cherished "every single second" spent in Weatherfield. He emphasized the valuable life lessons learned and the impact the show has had on his growth as an actor and individual. "For me, this is the end of the beginning," he said, eager to embrace the next chapter of his career.
Over the course of his 14 years on the show, Smith has undergone a remarkable transformation, both personally and professionally. He has openly discussed his struggles with weight and health over the years, revealing that he once used food as a means of self-harm. Now, he stands as a testament to resilience, having embarked on a significant weight loss journey that has reshaped his life.
As Colson Smith bids farewell to Craig Tinker, Coronation Street will continue to captivate its audience with gripping storylines and beloved characters. The upcoming episodes promise not only to deliver intense drama but also mark a poignant milestone in the actor’s life as he steps into new endeavors.