Coronation Street star Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt in the long running ITV soap, has admitted she was in tears when she learned co-star Colson Smith (Craig Tinker) is set to exit the show later this year.

Taking to Instagram the mum of two posted a message for Celebrity Big Brother star Craig saying: “Now that I’ve stopped crying about it, I can’t WAIT to see you slay the day. x”

She wasn’t the only cast member who confessed sadness at the imminent deprture of the 26-year-old. Tina O’Brien, who plays Sarah Platt, wrote: “Love you Cols [heart emojis].”

Sally Ann Matthews, who plays Rovers landlady Jenny Connor, said: “Grandma loves ya and can’t wait to watch you fly! x” Georgia Taylor (Toyah Habid) said: “We love you Cols.”

The outpouring of emotion from the cast came after Colson announced his character is leaving the show after 14 years on the cobbles.

>Lucy Fallon has been left in tears by a Coronation Street cast members exit (Image: Getty)

The actor wrote on Instagram: “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. For me, this is the end of the beginning. I genuinely can’t wait to see what chapter two has in store for me.”

<>Colson Smith has announced he will be leaving Coronation Street later this year (Image: Getty)

Invalid email

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy

<>

Craig’s on-screen mum, Beth Tinker, who was played by Lisa George, departed the show after 13 years in the summer when she was written out.

Away from the cobbles, Colson appeared on Celebrity Big Brother last year, in which he was placed third.

He has also gone on a health kick in recent years losing over 10 stone. He began his fitness journey during the Covid-19pandemic when he had more time to focus on his eating and exercise

He documented his efforts on YouTube in a mini documentary called Bored of Being the Fat Kid, where he said, “I’m not on a diet. I’m changing my life.”