Soap fans are eagerly discussing rumours that Coronation Street might see the return of two iconic characters for the poignant farewell of Craig Tinker.
Since first appearing in 2011 at the tender age of 12, Craig (portrayed by Colson Smith) has become an adored fixture on the soap, charming viewers with his performances.
The policeman's journey has woven through many of the soap's major storylines, encompassing his career in law enforcement and a series of doomed love interests. Last year spelled heartbreak for him as his mother Beth (played by Lisa George) bid farewell to Weatherfield after 13 years.
However, earlier this January, Colson Smith made an announcement about his departure. Disclosing he was informed of his exit last Autumn, he stated, "I've LOVED every single second of my 14-year stay as a resident on the GREATEST street in the world."
Adding fuel to fan speculation, reports surfaced that Craig will meet a tragic fate in a storyline expected to air this summer. An insider conveyed to The Sun: "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.", reports Leicestershire Live.
In a touching update last week, Colson confirmed he had finished filming his last scenes in an emotional Instagram post and later commemorated his time on the show with a farewell party, surrounded by his fellow cast members.
Coronation Street viewers are abuzz with speculation over a potential comeback for two of the show’s former residents, Bethany Platt (played by Lucy Fallon) and Faye Windass (Ellie Leach), in light of Craig Tinker's 'confirmed' demise. In online posts, fans have been voicing their certainty about the duo's return for the sombre event.
Bethany Platt was last spotted departing Weatherfield in February after her relationship with Daniel Osbourne (portrayed by Rob Mallard) fell apart. Known for being close mates with Craig on the cobbles, Bethany's return seems likely to some fans.
Craig's tumultuous love story with Faye Windass, including a 2023 proposal, might factor in Faye's return despite her leaving the same year.
Social media is rife with chatter about their anticipated returns for Craig’s send-off. A Corrie fan mused on a Facebook fan page: "Do you think Beth/Bethany or Faye will come back for Craig's funeral?". Another fan responded positively: "Yes good idea."
Another expressed their desire: "I'd love Faye to come back!" And yet another shared their hopes: "I'm hoping for Beth and Bethany to return for Craig's funeral."
Coronation Street airs Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX