Coronation Street fans are in for a major surprise as Ryan Thomas is set to reprise his role as Jason Grimshaw after nearly a decade away from the soap.
The actor, who originally portrayed the character from 2000 to 2016, will return for a guest appearance as part of his on-screen mother Eileen Grimshaw’s exit storyline.
A Special Return for a Beloved Character
After nine years away from the cobbles, Ryan Thomas is making a brief but meaningful comeback to the long-running ITV soap.
His return is closely tied to Sue Cleaver’s departure, as she prepares to bid farewell to her character, Eileen Grimshaw, after an impressive 25 years on the show.
The reunion between Jason and Eileen will be an emotional one, marking a significant moment for both characters and viewers.
Sue Cleaver’s exit has already set things in motion, with the return of Eileen’s sister, Julie Carp, played by Katy Cavanagh. Now, reports confirm that Jason will also be coming back to Weatherfield, further adding to the emotional weight of Eileen’s final episodes.
Ryan Thomas Eager to Step Back into Jason’s Shoes
A source close to the production revealed that Ryan didn’t hesitate when asked to return, emphasizing that his decision was driven by his deep respect and admiration for Sue Cleaver. “It was a no-brainer for Ryan to return when he was asked – it’s all for Sue. She’s like a second mum to him, and he was willing to do anything to make her send-off as special as she deserves it to be,” the source shared.
Despite having stepped away from acting in recent years, Ryan is reportedly excited but slightly nervous about stepping back into his iconic role. “He’s not acted for a while, so it’s a bit daunting, but he played Jason for so long that he’s looking forward to going back to the cobbles,” the source added.
Where Jason Grimshaw Left Off
Jason Grimshaw was a beloved character on Coronation Street for 16 years, known for his involvement in numerous dramatic storylines. His departure in 2016 was orchestrated by his mother’s then-boyfriend, Pat Phelan, a sinister and manipulative villain who led Jason to believe that Weatherfield was no longer safe for him. As a result, Jason left for Thailand, leaving fans wondering if they would ever see him again. Now, his long-awaited return is set to provide closure not just for Eileen but for the many viewers who grew up watching his journey on the soap.
Ryan Thomas’ Career Since Coronation Street
Since leaving the soap, Ryan has taken on various ventures. In 2018, he made a guest appearance in the Australian soap Neighbours, portraying Rafael Humphreys. That same year, he won Celebrity Big Brother, further cementing his place in the entertainment industry.
More recently, Ryan took part in Dancing on Ice in 2024, where he emerged as the winner, showcasing his versatility beyond acting. He has also become a prominent social media personality, often collaborating with his brothers, Waterloo Road actor Adam Thomas and former Love Island contestant Scott Thomas. The trio regularly share content together, much to the delight of their fans.
In addition to his return to Coronation Street, Ryan and Adam are gearing up to host ITV’s upcoming game show 99 to Beat, marking yet another exciting chapter in his career.
What Fans Can Expect from Jason’s Return
Details of Jason’s return storyline are being kept under wraps, but it is clear that his reappearance will play a crucial role in Eileen’s departure. With his deep ties to the street and the strong bond he shares with his mother, Jason’s return is expected to be both emotional and nostalgic. Whether his comeback will be a simple farewell or open the door for further appearances remains to be seen, but one thing is certain—fans will be thrilled to see Jason Grimshaw back on their screens.
Ryan’s return to Coronation Street is not just a treat for viewers but also a fitting tribute to Sue Cleaver’s legacy on the soap. As Eileen prepares to leave Weatherfield, having Jason by her side will undoubtedly make her exit even more poignant.
With filming set to begin soon, excitement is building among long-time fans. Will Jason’s return be just a short visit, or could it pave the way for a more permanent comeback? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure—this is a moment Coronation Street fans won’t want to miss.
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