ITV Coronation Street star makes feelings clear on axe after 14 years on soap: ‘Time on the Cobbles is to end’
Coronation Street actor Colson Smith has announced he will be leaving the ITV soap after 14 years in the role of PC Craig Tinker.
The 26-year-old star revealed he was informed in autumn last year that his character would be written out of the show in 2025.
Smith, who joined the long-running series in 2011 when he was just 11 years old, will remain on screen until early summer.
The actor has portrayed Craig Tinker’s journey from schoolboy to police officer during his time on the famous cobbles.
In a social media post shared on X and Instagram, Smith expressed his gratitude for his time on the show.
“I’ve loved every single second of my 14 year stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world,” he wrote.
The actor emphasised how meaningful his experience had been, stating: “I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street.”
Smith remained optimistic about his future beyond the soap, adding: “For me, this is just the end of the beginning. I genuinely can’t wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me.”
His announcement prompted supportive responses from co-stars, with Georgia Taylor writing “We love you Cols,” while Sally Ann Matthews commented: “Grandma loves ya and can’t wait to watch you fly!” (sic)
An insider source revealed Smith was informed about his departure several months ago and will remain on screen until early summer.
“He is hugely grateful to have had 14 years working on the show and is excited about what promises to be a brilliant exit storyline,” the source told The Daily Record.
The actor has maintained a positive outlook regarding his departure from the soap.
“I’m excited to play out the exit story for Our Craigy,” Smith shared in his announcement.
His exit comes as part of planned changes under new Executive Producer Kate Brooks, who warned last month: “There are a few exits this year, and some unexpected ones that will send shockwaves.”
Smith’s departure marks one of several recent high-profile exits from Coronation Street.
Craig’s on-screen mother Beth Tinker, played by Lisa George, left the show last summer.
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Helen Worth ended her remarkable 50-year run as Gail Platt during the Christmas period.
Earlier this week, Sue Cleaver announced she would be departing from her role as Eileen Grimshaw, which she has played for over two decades.
Smith has recently expanded his television presence beyond the soap, appearing in ITV’s Celebrity Big Brother last spring.
He also featured in the network’s I’m a Celebrity: Unpacked towards the end of last year.
The actor previously documented his personal transformation in a YouTube film Bored of Being the Fat Kid, chronicling his journey from 22 stone to around 12 stone.