Coronation Street fans were left doing a double take during Monday’s episode
Coronation Street viewers believe they’ve identified Craig Tinker’s ‘replacement’ on the popular soap, following the surprising announcement of actor Colson Smith’s departure. Craig has been a mainstay on the cobbles since his first appearance in 2011, when he was just 12 years old, and has since won over a dedicated fanbase.
The character has been involved in major storylines, from joining the police force to navigating a series of unsuccessful romances. Last year, Craig was left heartbroken when his mother Beth (played by Lisa George) departed Weatherfield after 13 years.
However, it was revealed in January that Craig would also be leaving the show after a 14-year run. Discussing his exit on his podcast, Off The Sofa, Colson disclosed that he had known about his departure since last October.
Craig is leaving the soap this year(Image: ITV)
“I got told in October that Craig Tinker’s time has come to an end. As an actor we’re all on year contracts,” he said. He also assured fans that there were no hard feelings, explaining that Craig “had become very isolated.”
He added: “In the past few years his girlfriend’s left the show, his mum has left the show, he doesn’t have any family. I joined the show as an 11 year old for two episodes, and I leave as a 26 year old having done 750 episodes. I love the show and I’ve loved every minute about it.”, reports Plymouth Live.
Colson’s final scenes are set to air later this year. However, during Monday’s episode (January 27), viewers were intrigued to spot Craig’s apparent ‘replacement’: a new policeman.
A new copper made his debut
During the latest episode, Chesney Brown (played by Sam Aston) and Gemma Winter-Brown (Dolly-Rose Campbell) had an unexpected visit from the police following Chesney’s clash with a car he believed was tailing him. But it wasn’t just the drama unfolding on ‘Coronation Street’ that caught viewers’ attention—it was the new face in uniform.
Fans took to an Emmerdale Facebook group to share their thoughts, with one fan posting: “Did anyone else notice the new police officer? Don’t know where he came from!” The conversation quickly picked up as another fan replied: “It’s ar Craigy’s replacement.” A third person added: “He’s the new Craig.”
And yet another viewer speculated about the newcomer’s future on the cobbles, commenting: “I saw him too, wonder if he will be the new officer on the street? ” The buzz around the fresh character suggests ‘Corrie’ fans are eager to see more of this potential new regular.
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX
