After a remarkable 14-year run on Coronation Street, Colson Smith has confirmed that his time playing Craig Tinker, the beloved policeman, is coming to an end in 2025. 

The actor shared the news with fans earlier this month, expressing both gratitude and excitement for his next chapter. 

His heartfelt message on Instagram marked the end of an era for one of Weatherfield’s most recognizable characters.

Smith’s statement, shared with fans in early January, reflected on his incredible journey with the show, saying, 

“Autumn last year I was told that Craig Tinker’s time on the Cobbles is to come to an end in 2025.” 

He went on to express his immense pride in his long tenure on the show, saying, “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.”

The actor also noted how much he had learned from his time working alongside the cast and crew, adding, “I’ve learned pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home.” His excitement for the future was evident as he looked forward to the next phase of his career. “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,” he said.

Fans of Coronation Street have grown fond of Craig Tinker over the years. Introduced as a trainee police officer, Craig quickly became a key member of Weatherfield’s tight-knit community. His character has evolved over time, from a bumbling but well-meaning rookie to a more confident and respected figure. Along the way, Craig’s interactions with other characters, including his romantic relationships and his close bond with his family, have endeared him to viewers.

Colson Smith’s departure is sure to leave a significant void on the cobbles. His performance as Craig has been praised for its depth and authenticity, and many fans have expressed their sadness over his exit. However, Smith’s positive attitude toward leaving the show has reassured fans that this transition is an exciting next step in his career.

One particularly touching moment for Smith came after he shared the news of his exit. Legendary Coronation Street actress Barbara Knox, who has portrayed Rita Tanner for decades, reached out to Colson in a heartfelt phone call. Smith revealed that he was “taken aback” when he received a call from a withheld number, only to discover that it was Barbara Knox on the other end.

Barbara expressed her appreciation for Colson’s work on the show, saying, “People come and go all the time… and there’s some people who are there who love the show. You’re one of those people and I just want to say thank you for all the time that I’ve spent with you and the way that you treat me.” This touching gesture from one of Coronation Street’s most iconic stars highlighted the camaraderie and deep respect shared among the cast members.

As Colson Smith prepares to wrap up his final scenes as Craig Tinker, fans are eagerly awaiting how his exit will unfold. The actor’s decision to move on from the show is undoubtedly a bittersweet one, but his positive outlook on the next chapter in his career is inspiring. Craig Tinker’s time in Weatherfield may be coming to an end, but Colson’s journey is far from over, and viewers are sure to continue supporting him in whatever comes next.

In the meantime, Coronation Street fans can look forward to the emotional and dramatic storyline that will serve as Craig’s farewell to the cobbles. Whether Craig will leave on a high note, with his career progressing or perhaps with a more personal resolution, remains to be seen. Whatever happens, Colson Smith’s portrayal of Craig Tinker will always hold a special place in the hearts of Coronation Street viewers, who have followed his character through thick and thin for over a decade.

As Colson Smith steps into a new chapter of his career, fans will be left to reflect on the lasting impact Craig Tinker had on Coronation Street and the cast and crew that he has worked with over the years.

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