Coronation Street's Colson Smith issues six-word update after leaving co-star 'crying' over announcement

Coronation Street star Colson Smith has offered an update after being inundated with messages after confirming his upcoming exit from the cobbles.

The actor is famed for playing Craig Tinker on the ITV soap. Colson has grown up alongside his character on-screen, having first appeared in Weatherfield as the son of Beth Tinker, played by Lisa George, as a youngster back in 2011.

However, Colson confirmed on Monday evening (January 6) that as he prepares to mark 14 years in Weatherfield this summer, his time as his policing alter-ego is coming to an end.

In a social media post, shared to X and Instagram alongside a picture of himself portraying Craig as a police officer, he announced: "Autumn last year I was told that Craig Tinker's time on the Cobbles is to come to end in 2025. I've loved every single second of my 14 year stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world.

"I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street. I've learned pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I’m excited to play out the exit story for Our Craigy."

Colson added: "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. LONG LIVE THE COBBLES!"

His Corrie co-stars were quick to respond to the post, with Bethany Platt actress Lucy Fallon commenting: "Now that i’ve stopped crying about it, i can’t WAIT to see you slay the day." Jenny Connor star Sally Ann Matthews commented: "Grandma loves ya and can’t wait to watch you fly!" Dee-Dee Bailey star Channique Sterling Brown commented: "We love you."

Sue Devaney, who plays Debbie Webster, replied: "Love you Cols. so proud of you. Looking forward to watching your journey and can’t wait