Latest news with #CraigTinker
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
Coronation Street cast hit by fresh blow as budget cuts continue to bite
The Coronation Street cast have been hit by a fresh blow amid the ongoing budget cuts - which have seen a number of changes in the long-running ITV soap throughout the year The cast and crew of ITV soap Coronation Street are reportedly said to be "furious" over the latest impact of budget cuts. Earlier this year, it was reported the long-running soap had made changes to filming in a bid to cut back on expenses. Now, the cast and crew have been hit with another huge blow, as the latest impact has reportedly left them forking out for their own summer party. In January, it was reported the show had infuriated some of the cast by reducing the number of established characters filming inside the iconic Rovers Return pub in a bid to save money. The show has also seen a number of departures this year including Colson Smith (Craig Tinker) and Charlotte Jordan (Daisy Midgeley). The latest change reportedly means the cast have had to organise their own summer party, which each person paying £22 per for the bash. They'll also be paying for drinks on top of the sum, which covers venue, entertainment and security. A source told The Sun: 'It's been a difficult few months and people were really looking forward to the party, but it puts a bit of a dampener on things that they have to pay. 'It might not be a lot to some of the bigger known stars but for some staff it is. The fact that drinks aren't included is a real blow too. People aren't really that surprised though considering the constant budget cuts.' The Mirror understands that the Coronation Street crew organised the party, not ITV bosses, and the whole team is said to be looking forward to the event. The Mirror have contacted Coronation Street and ITV for comment. The news comes months after it was announced the soap would be cutting down to five hours a week, rather than six. However, it's not the only ITV soap to have their hours cut, as Emmerdale will also follow suit. The change is set to take place at the beginning of 2026. From January, there will be a soap 'power hour', with Emmerdale airing for half an hour each day at 8pm. Coronation Street will air straight after at 8.30pm each day, again for half an hour, as the drama from the Cobbles returns to its daily offerings. However, there's also a huge positive in January for both soaps, as for the first time ever, they'll join forces in an unprecedented, one-off special episode to launch the broadcaster's new power hour. It will mark the first time a crossover has happened in British soap history, will see characters from both soaps come together in a celebration of the soap genre.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Coronation Street star reveals she's signed a new contract to keep her on soap for another year amid cast exodus
ONE of the stars of Coronation Street has revealed that she's signed a new contract. 7 Jodie Prenger has revealed that she's staying on Coronation Street for the timebeing Credit: Getty 7 The actress made her debut as barmaid Glenda Shuttleworth in 2022 Credit: ITV 7 She first rose to fame after winning a number of huge TV shows in the noughties which included Andrew Lloyd Webber's I'd Do Anything on the BBC in 2009 Credit: BBC This is set to keep her on the seemingly struggling ITV soap for at least another year amid the cast exodus. Advertisement A number of high-profile stars have left Coronation Street after a string of high-profile budget cuts. However, one star has revealed that she is very much set to stay on the cobbles, and possibly behind the bar of the Rovers. West End star She rose to fame after winning the second series of The Biggest Loser in 2006. Advertisement READ MORE ON CORRIE This was before she beat out the likes of Oscar nominee The actress soon swapped the stage for the screen as she secured a 'dream' role on the cobbles. Jodie has now revealed that she's set to reprise her popular role in more episodes of the show. She excitedly told Bella magazine: "I've just re-signed my contract! The poor things have got stuck with me for another year! Advertisement Most read in Soaps Comment "I'm thrilled. I love it there. I used to always say to my agent, 'Would you ask if I can be on Corrie?'." She added: "I was that crazy person outside, pitched in a tent, wanting to get in – and now I'm in!" Coronation Street's Jodie Prenger reveals future of Platt family after fans feared another soap legend will quit This comes following a string of high-profile exits including Helen Worth, who departed her long-running role as Gail Platt. This was after a 50-year tenure on ITV screens which kicked off a series of other Advertisement Former I'm A Celeb campmate Sue Cleaver left her role as Craig Tinker ( Corrie cash crisis: shock exits for 2025 ITV bosses are locked in a battle to save the cash-strapped soap. This means that a number of stars have either been axed from or have abandoned the long-running serial drama. Colson Smith - Craig Tinker The character of Craig Tinker Sue Cleaver - Eileen Grimshaw After 25 years playing Eileen Grimshaw, former I'm A Celebrity campmate Sue Cleaver Luca Toolan - Mason Radcliffe Bosses decided to axe the teenage character after Sue Devaney - Debbie Webster In November 2024, we revealed that Charlotte Jordan - Daisy Midgeley The actress became the fifth star to leave Coronation Street in just one month. We Shelley King - Yasmeen Metcalfe The actress has played Yasmeen Metcalfe on the cobbles for the past 11 years and Yasmeen Metcalfe ( This is after Advertisement Emmerdale used to air six episodes per week, Monday to Friday with a double episode on Thursdays. Corrie also aired six episodes per week, which were spread across Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, with two episodes each night. Now just five 30-minute episodes of each soap will air in what execs have labelled as the ' 7 Jodie has revealed that she will still appear on the soap for another year Credit: PA Advertisement 7 This is following a number of high-profile exits amid a cash crisis behind the scenes Credit: Shutterstock Editorial 7 Sue Cleaver left her long-running role of Eileen Grimshaw after over two decades on the cobbles Credit: Rex 7 Charlotte Jordan also quit her role on the cobbles as her character flew abroad for a new life in the sun Credit: ITV Coronation Street airs on ITV1 and is available to stream on ITVX. Advertisement
The Irish Sun
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Irish Sun
Coronation Street star reveals he's working as a groundsman at local cricket club days after being killed off on soap
CORONATION Street star has revealed he's swapped the cobbles for the cricket pitch - just days after his character was dramatically killed off. The actor, who recently bowed out of the ITV soap in emotional scenes, is now working as a groundsman at his local cricket club. Advertisement 6 Colson's character Craig Tinker passed away following the horror clubbing Credit: ITV 6 But now the star is volunteering at his local cricket club as a groundsman Credit: instagram/@colsonjsmith Coronation Street fans have been left in tears following PC Craig Tinker's The loveable policeman Craig had attempted to arrest drunk driver Mick but after turning his back for a moment, Mick was able to grab hold of a baseball bat in his van and club Craig over the head and left him to die in the road. Having been raced to hospital, his family and friends and long-standing colleague PC Jess watched on as he succumbed to his injuries and passed away. Advertisement read more on corrie Craig's death comes after actor The soap favourite has now shared a behind-the-scenes snap from the pitch, trading scripts and stunts for mowers and maintenance. Taking to his Instagram stories, Colson posted a snap of himself getting his hands dirty while he looks after his local cricket club's pitch. He captioned the snap: "Groundman duties @castleford_cricket_club". Advertisement Most read in Soaps The Cricket fanatic has been volunteering there since his departure from the soap. The Sun exclusively revealed Coronation Street's Colson Smith reveals the moment soap boss 'binned him' from show and says 'I knew it was coming' A source told us: 'Craig has grown up on the street and he's become part of it so it was a tough decision to make but one that will be worth it. 'PC Tinker will meet his maker in heroic circumstances this summer and there won't be a dry eye in the house when it goes out. Advertisement 'Colson is taking it well and there's a real feeling that this chapter is closing for him and there are bigger and brighter things ahead." The star marked his soap exit with a wild, booze-fuelled Corrie cash crisis: shock exits for 2025 ITV bosses are locked in a battle to save the cash-strapped soap. This means that a number of stars have either been axed from or have abandoned the long-running serial drama. Colson Smith - Craig Tinker The character of Craig Tinker Sue Cleaver - Eileen Grimshaw After 25 years playing Eileen Grimshaw, former I'm A Celebrity campmate Sue Cleaver Luca Toolan - Mason Radcliffe Bosses decided to axe the teenage character after Sue Devaney - Debbie Webster In November 2024, we revealed that Charlotte Jordan - Daisy Midgeley The actress became the fifth star to leave Coronation Street in just one month. We Shelley King - Yasmeen Metcalfe The actress has played Yasmeen Metcalfe on the cobbles for the past 11 years and The police themed party paid homage to his character PC Tinker and featured fancy dress, balloons and police tape at the tapas bar and restaurant El Gato Negro Tapas in Manchester. Many of Colson's Corrie co-stars attended full of smiles including Advertisement The Corrie is gearing up for a number of exits for some iconic characters this summer, including The soap has already seen several characters depart the cobbles from the likes of ITV is facing a Advertisement Consequently, the broadcaster is reducing the length of both Coronation Street and Emmerdale episodes from hour-long to 30-minute installments, starting in January 2026. This change will create a "soaps power hour" where Emmerdale airs at 8pm, followed by Coronation Street at 8.30pm each weeknight. But with ratings falling and viewers switching to streamers like Netflix, more soap stars are fearing the axe - should they be worried? Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 or stream from 7am on ITVX . Advertisement 6 Craig's friends and family were left devastated by his death Credit: ITV 6 Colson had a boozy bash to mark his departure on the soap after 14 years Credit: Instagram/colsonjsmith 6 The party was full of drinks and emotional speeches Credit: Instagram/colsonjsmith 6 Many of Colson's Corrie co-stars attended full of smiles Credit: Instagram/colsonjsmith Advertisement
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Axed Coronation Street star reveals 'exciting' new job after leaving ITV soap
A Coronation Street star has revealed their "exciting" new job after leaving the ITV soap. Colson Smith, who played PC Craig Tinker on the show, saw his character recently killed off after 14 years on our screens. The actor, who made his debut back in 2011, announced he was leaving Corrie back in January. Now, he has revealed his next job, and teased that he has more "exciting" things in the pipeline. "I wouldn't be the person I am today without this show" Thank you for 14 great years of Tinks, Colson ❤️ @ITV #Corrie — Coronation Street (@itvcorrie) May 21, 2025 Taking to Instagram, Smith wrote: "Thank you so much for all the love this week! I really appreciate it! "Some of you have been asking, what next for me? There's a few exciting things going off!! "BUT one thing I can tell you for now, is that I'm joining the team at BBC Radio Leeds this summer!!! Catch ya on the wireless in Yorkshire!!" Fans took to the comments to wish the Coronation Street star well. One said: "Good luck with everything @colsonjsmith you will be missed in Corrie T cried so much at your scenes this week. They made a mistake letting you go." Another added: "Yes Colson! You're going to go far in the presenting world, I can feel it. You've such a warmth and likability... Never change." Smith announced he was leaving Corrie in January, saying: "I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street. "I've learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home." The 26-year-old, who has played police officer Craig Tinker on the show for 14 years, saw his character die after being beaten with a baseball bat by Mick Michaelis (Joe Layton), after he tried to arrest him. Speaking on ITV's This Morning, Smith said of his departure: 'It literally is just working at Coronation Street (that I'll miss the most) and calling that place my work. 'And it was weird, because when I got asked about highlights, I was trying to think of some of the things we've done, and I've done some mad things, I've met the (late) Queen, and I've done all this stuff, but it's the simple stuff. 'Like, on a summer's day at Corrie, we get an ice cream van, with all your mates and sit outside in the car park and the cast, the crew, the production team, the security staff, the cleaners, we're all so tight there, so sitting out in the summer having an ice cream with your mates, they're kind of the best days. 'It's that craic, that's the stuff that I won't get at any other job, and that's the stuff that I'll miss forever.' Recommended reading: Coronation Street star spotted on set 7 years after leaving the ITV show Coronation Street and Doctor Who star Michael McStay dies aged 92 Identity of Deal or No Deal's banker finally revealed as Coronation Street star Smith was just 12 years old when he joined the soap and his memorable storylines have included him joining the police force and struggling with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). He appeared for the last time in last Friday's episode as doctors pulled a sheet over his deceased character's body. Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
Scottish Sun
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
Coronation Street's most devastating deaths from brutal blow to fatal stabbing as Craig Tinker killed in tragic scenes
Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) CORONATION Street is no stranger to killing off beloved characters in tragic circumstances. The ITV soap does not shy away from giving fan favourites tragic exit storylines. Sign up for the Entertainment newsletter Sign up 8 Beloved Craig Tinker was killed off in heartbreaking Coronation Street scenes Credit: ITV 8 The police officer sustained serious injuries after being attacked Credit: ITV 8 Craig later passed away in hospital Credit: ITV Earlier this week, viewers watched as PC Craig Tinker (Colson Smith) passed away after being attacked by thug Mick Michaelis (Joe Layton). It marked the end of actor Colson Smith's 14-year tenure on the cobbles - which was first revealed earlier this year. Taking to Instagram after the heartbreaking scenes aired, Colson shared a series of photos from filming his final scenes. He penned: "My dump from my final block as Craig Tinker on Coronation Street. "Thank you for having me." Fans were left in tears as Craig's death played out as one penned on X: "Craig's cruel demise. RIP darl." Another added: "Some scenes don't just move you, they stay with you. That was today." A third commented: "What a sad ending even though I knew it was coming yes I did cry ! "Going to miss Craig RIP Pc Tinker and fantastic acting from @colsonsmith and @realsamia." A fourth wrote: "We've literally watched Craig grow up on our screens, now we've just gotta say goodbye to him?? forever???? nah this is sick." Coronation Street favourite left for dead in brutal attack after actor is axed from soap Before Craig, there have been many other shocking deaths from over the years. Listed below are among the most memorable - as well as gut-wrenching. Kylie Platt 8 Kylie Platt died in her husband David's arms Credit: ITV Played by Paula Lane, viewers were heartbroken by Kylie Platt's tragic death in 2016. The character - who was half-sister to Becky Granger (Katherine Kelly) and mother to Max Turner (Paddy Bever) - debuted in 2010. Kylie died in dramatic fashion after being stabbed by thug Clayton Hibbs (Callum Harrison) - who had been assaulting her friend Gemma (Dolly-Rose Campbell). Speaking ahead of the scenes airing, Paula said: "I'm not just saying this because I'm involved – but I don't think I've ever read an ending like it. 'The audience are going to get a real sense of shock and surprise – how a sudden death really is. They're going to feel those emotions." Tina McIntyre 8 Tina McIntyre was killed off in 2014 Credit: ITV Viewers were first introduced to Michelle Keegan's feisty Tina McIntyre in 2008. She was originally girlfriend to David Platt (Jack P. Shepherd) but had further romances while on the cobbles. Towards the end of her stint, Tina began an affair with Peter Barlow (Chris Gascoyne) - who was married to Carla Connor (Alison King). But when she threatened to expose the truth, Carla's brother Rob Donovan (Marc Baylis) ended up in a confrontation with her. Fans watched Tina fall off balcony after she lost her footing - and vowed to Rob that she would tel the police he pushed her. Left panicked, Rob resorted to murder by clobbering Tina over the head with a metal pipe. Jack Duckworth 8 Jack Duckworth had a very poignant death scene Credit: Handout As portrayed by Bill Tarmey, Corrie legend Jack Duckworth had a very poignant goodbye scene. Jack appeared in the ITV soap from 1979 up until his final scenes on November 8, 2010. That final episode saw Tyrone (Alan Halsall) organise Jack's 74th birthday party in The Rovers. The soap legend quietly left - after waving goodbye to Ken Barlow (William Roache), who raised a glass to him. Putting on the Matt Monro record Softly As I Leave You, Jack is reunited with late wife Vera's ghost as he passes on. The two have an emotional dance together and share a kiss representing Jack's death. Later that evening - Tyrone, his then-wife Molly (Vicky Binns) and Jack's companion Connie (Rita May) returned to find him dead in his arm chair. Sinead Tinker 8 Viewers were heartbroken to lose Sinead Tinker from the cobbles Credit: ITV In 2013, actress Katie McGlynn began portraying Sinead Tinker on the cobbles. She notably had romances with Chesney Brown (Sam Aston) and Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard). The character was first diagnosed with cervical cancer back in 2018. However, the disease later spread with Sinead told she had just months left to live. Viewers were heartbroken by late 2019 when she ultimately lost her battle. Surrounded by husband, auntie Beth, and son Bertie, Sinead battled side-effects and illness as she slowly accepted her fate. She discussed the after life possibilities with vicar Billy as she admitted that she hopes she'll be able to look over Bertie once she has gone. Rana Habeeb 8 Rana Habeeb died under tragic circumstances Credit: ITV Rana Habeeb arrived in 2016, as a new love interest for Zeedan Nazir (Qasim Ahktar). Played by Bhavna Limbachia, viewers also met Rana's own family - such as brother Imran (Charlie de Melo). She later formed a relationship with friend Kate Connor (Faye Brookes) with the two becoming engaged. However, a tragic turn of events saw Rana crushed in a factory collapse on her wedding day. Rana insisted the pair got married after Imran helped Kate battle through the police to see her for one last time. But viewers were devastated as the fan favourite passed away in Kate's arms. Most devastating soap deaths SOAP viewers are frequently left heartbroken after watching some of their favourite characters bite the dust. Here is a list of the most devastating deaths that have taken place in soapland over the years. EASTENDERS Barry Evans - Evil Janine (Charlie Brooks) lured her trusting fiance to Scotland for a quickie marriage after learning he was dying. Her plan to inherit Barry's fortune was thwarted when Barry told her that the doctors had mixed up his medical files. Furious that she was no longer set for a windfall, she pushed Barry off a cliff after telling him their love was 'fake'. Bradley Branning - Bradley was accused of killing Stacey Slater's rapist Archie Mitchell (Larry Lamb) after he punched him twice on the night he died. He was spotted in the Square by a police woman who chased him up a fire escape. Bradley lost his balance and tragically plunged to his death. CORONATION STREET Tina McIntyre - Tina was getting it on with Peter Barlow - despite him being married to Carla Connor. When she threatened to reveal the truth, Carla's brother Rob got into a physical altercation with her. Tina lost her footing and fell off a balcony - then warned Rob she was going to tell the cops he pushed her. In a panic, Rob brutally clobbered her over the head with a metal pipe. Molly Dobbs - Molly was one of the victims in Corrie's 2010 tram crash, alongside Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold). Married to Tyrone (Alan Halsall), Molly had been having an affair with Kevin Webster (Michael Le Vell) in the months before her death. This resulted in the birth of their son, Jack (Kyran Bowes), who was named after Jack Duckworth. As fate would have it, Kevin's wife Sally (Sally Dynevor) was by Molly's side in her final moments. Sally was stunned as Molly confessed Kevin was Jack's father, before dying of her injuries. Vera Duckworth - Having appeared regularly in Corrie since the 1970s, there was no denying Vera Duckworth was an iconic character. Alongside her husband Jack, the pair formed one of the soap's most beloved couples. Viewers were heartbroken when Vera was killed off in 2008, being discovered having passed away peacefully in her chair. Liz Dawn, who played Vera, made a brief return two years later for Bill Tarmey's exit as Jack. Paul Foreman - Fans were heartbroken when Paul Foreman succumbed to his illness after battling motor neurone disease. Introduced in 2018 as David Platt's (Jack P. Shepherd) cellmate, he later embarked on a romance - and marriage - with vicar Billy Mayhew. The MND storyline was announced in 2023 - with the expectation it would result in the character's death. EMMERDALE Sarah Sugden - After the family got into financial problems, Sarah's son Andy (Kelvin Fletcher) decided to make some quick cash from an insurance company by setting fire to the Sugden barn. He didn't realise his mum was inside the building, and she got trapped in the blaze. Nine villagers - The shocking 1993 plane crash episode brought in 18 million viewers for Emmerdale. Mark Hughes was killed by a falling wall, Archie Brooks was burned by jet fuel, Elizabeth Pollard was killed by debris and newcomer Leonard Kempinski died in a car crash caused by the crash. Five other non-recurring characters from the village also died. HOLLYOAKS Carmel McQueen - The talented singer died in shocking scenes when a train crashed into a her family's car. Carmel managed to free her cousin Theresa from the rubble - but got stuck in it herself. Moments later the train exploded and Carmel died in the arms of her family members, promising to be their guardian angel. One fan wrote on X, then Twitter: "Kate being told that Rana won't get scream @Faye_Brookes" Another penned: "Rana and Kate's screams will haunt me for f**ing ever." Wihile a third said: "Well... The tears are flowing... #Rana #Kana @BhavnaLimbachia" Coronation Street continues on ITV1 and ITVX.
