Coronation Street’s future was recently called into question after a stream of exit announcements.
Thankfully, it’s been confirmed that the ITV soap will not be coming to an end. And, as we breathe a sigh of relief, there are plenty of reasons why the beloved, longest-running serial drama deserves to stand strong.
The fatal stabbing of Mason Radcliffe (Luca Toolan) earned praise for its sensitive writing and powerful portrayal, as Corrie shone a light on the prevalent epidemic of knife crime.
Scenes were well-paced and reflective, centring around former bully Mason’s road to redemption before he died.
This was the perfect example of a life-changing storyline – a concept promised all too often but not always delivered. From bereaved Abi Webster (Sally Carman-Duttine) and David Platt (Jack P Shepherd) to new father figure Tim Metcalfe (Joe Duttine), Mason’s death affected the entire community.
Bethany Platt’s (Lucy Fallon) groundbreaking stoma storyline has shown how people can go on to live happily and well, and Cait Fitton has delicately carried Lauren Bolton’s harrowing tale of lifelong abuse.
Corrie’s special brand of comedy treated us to the lovable Kirk Sutherland’s (Andy Whyment) unique insights as he attempted to embrace singledom after the end of his marriage.
And in the café and the Rovers respectively, Roy Cropper (David Neilson), Bernie Winter (Jane Hazlegrove) and Jenny Connor (Sally Ann Matthews) continue to pass comment on the locals’ dilemmas with a brilliant wisdom and wit.
So, apart from notable departures, what brought on this unfounded speculation that the show was in crisis?
For me, the negativity stems from the paths certain characters are taking, dampening the show’s spirit.
Lisa Swain’s (Vicky Myers) romance with Carla Connor (Alison King) has faced endless interruptions in favour of police business. We’ve not seen nearly enough of Lisa and Carla as a proper couple, and with crime levels at an alarming high in Weatherfield, let’s calm this down and, where possible, escape the darkness for some warmth.
David has a lot on his plate right now, from his own gaslighting leading to wife Shona’s (Julia Goulding) one night stand, to the gangsters out for his thieving blood.
Suddenly the wisecracks, a trademark which usually gives us a welcome break from the tension, have taken a backseat. The pay-off with David has always been his deadpan delivery, giving way to some form of optimism, and I’d love to see this back as a priority and the gangster drama resolved.
I’d also call for more entertainment from the delightful Mary Taylor (Patti Clare), who barely graces our screens these days.
Next, let’s dive into pregnant Daisy Midgeley’s (Charlotte Jordan) ‘Who’s the Daddy?’ saga. I want to see soap land change the habit of a lifetime and clear this one up quickly.
My vote? Make Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard) the father, despite the surrounding controversy and Daisy’s impending farewell. Daisy’s adoration for Daniel’s son Bertie (Rufus Morgan-Smith) has developed naturally and helped soften the once manipulative barmaid.
Although I’d never want to wish away more cast members, I can’t help but imagine Daisy, Daniel, Bertie and baby heading off into the sunset – purely for the sake of an idyllic happy ever after.
Now, we need to talk about Leanne Battersby (Jane Danson). One of the Street’s strongest women, she’s been forced into the role of bitter ex thanks to stepsister Toyah’s (Georgia Taylor) unconvincing affair with Leanne’s long-term partner, Nick Tilsley (Ben Price).
Tearing Leanne and Toyah apart in this way was never going to go down well, but vengeful Leanne has become the villain and she deserves far better than that.
It’s time for Leanne to get her life back and reclaim some dignity. And, although it would render the whole plot pointless, please split up Toyah and Nick and remind us why we love them as characters in their own right.
Nick should be single for a while and concentrate on fatherhood and Platt family ties, while Toyah must repair her bond with Leanne.
Coronation Street seems determined to pigeonhole Toyah, painting her as obsessive and self-righteous, at least through Abi’s eyes as they clash over young Alfie.
Coronation Street cast exits - who is going?
Sue Devaney as Debbie Webster
Fans have been left distraught at news of Debbie's upcoming departure, with the character being written out as part of a storyline focusing on dementia.
A source told Metro: 'It’s one of the show’s biggest storylines of the year, and a real chance for Sue to finally get her time in the spotlight – it will just be devastating for fans that it will effectively be her final storyline.
‘It’s one of many major storylines new boss Kate Brooks has in the bag, and there will not be a dry eye in the house.
‘There is no doubt in the Corrie family that she will give the performance of a lifetime and make Debbie’s exit one to remember for years.’
Sue Cleaver as Eileen Grimshaw
Loose Women and I'm A Celebrity star Sue has been central to the show for two and a half decades but now she will be saying goodbye.
She confirmed: ‘I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on Coronation Street.’
‘The door is still firmly open, but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures, and live fearlessly.'
Colson Smith as Craig Tinker
After 14 years, Corrie has decided to also write out police officer Craig, with the actor sharing his love for the show on social media following the decision, delivered to him last year.
He said: '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.
'I've learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I'm excited to play out the exit story for our Craigy. For me, this is just the end of the beginning.
'I genuinely can't wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me. Long live the cobbles!'
Charlotte Jordan as Daisy Midgeley
After a very busy four years on the show, Daisy is set to leave as part of a currently to-secret explosive storyline, with Charlotte keen to try other projects.
She said in a statement: 'My time at Coronation Street is something I’ll always cherish.
'After a brilliant four years for Daisy, it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.
'It’s been a privilege to be part of a wonderful institution with even more wonderful colleagues who have taught me so much.'
Shelley King as Yasmeen Metcalfe
After 10 years, Yasmeen will be departing the cobbles - and she has already filmed her final scenes in December, so expect her last episode soon.
Metro understands that she won't be killed off.
A show insider has clarified: ‘Shelley spoke to producers early last year and advised that after 10 years on the show and being involved in many major storylines during the past decade she had decided the time has come for her to explore other opportunities.
‘Shelley is an accomplished stage and television actress and we fully understand her desire to take her career in another direction after 10 years playing the same role.
‘She filmed her final scenes in December.’
Paddy Bever as Max Turner
With Paddy having filmed his final scenes, it is expected he will leave in spring.
‘After much reflection and in an incredibly difficult decision, I have chosen to step away from Max, and Coronation Street, to explore new opportunities. I have been surrounded by such kindness and support every step of the way, Paddy, 22, said in a statement.
Talking to The Mirror, he added: ‘It’s been a great privilege to contribute to the legacy of such a well-loved and iconic show. This chapter has been unforgettable and while I look forward to what lies ahead, I will treasure these memories.’
Why not change this tired narrative and revisit Toyah’s failed adoption of foster daughter Elsie, giving her that opportunity through another child? Alternatively, let her branch out and make positive new friendships away from the aforementioned judgements.
Elsewhere, there’s yet more cheating afoot as Abi’s trauma leads her into temptation – just as husband Kevin (Michael Le Vell) is diagnosed with testicular cancer.
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Abi has already been unfaithful, and her tortured visions of murdered son Seb Franklin (Harry Visinoni) would be much more compelling without another fling that risks us losing respect for fan-favourite Abi.
I certainly don’t want to see two important stories about cancer and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder overshadowed by infidelity, and the only way to justify this twist is to have Abi change her mind at the last minute and allow her and Kev to lean on each other.
Everything we love about Coronation Street still very much exists and will continue to do so; it just needs to be nourished.
Toning down the scares and scandals and injecting some extra heart and humour into the show could restore it to its former glory.
Do you have a story you’d like to share? Get in touch by emailing jess.austin@metro.co.uk.
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