Coronation Street and Emmerdale 'face brutal cast culls' as ITV slashes budgets

Metro

28-07-2025

Sue Cleaver as Eileen Grimshaw
Loose Women and I'm A Celebrity star Sue was central to the show for two and a half decades said goodbye in June.
When her exit was confirmed she said: '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 decided to also write out police officer Craig, with the actor sharing his love for the show on social media following the decision, which was 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 departed in the back of a taxi, 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 also departed the cobbles - in a somewhat muted exit scene.
Following her departure, actress Shelley bid farewell in an emotional video posted to Corrie's social media accounts.
'I've been so privileged to be living in number six, I've had the most wonderful time,' she said.
'I'm very sad to be leaving, I just felt I'd have to try going back to the stage, maybe try to refresh Yasmeen.'
She continued: 'We're very close, Yas and I. So as you probably know, Yas is going to do other things – she will not say goodbye.
'She will say, as the French do, 'à bientôt', which means 'see you soon'.
Paddy Bever as Max Turner
'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.
His final scenes aired in March, having been carted off to a prison in Durham.
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.'
Debbie will be on our screens until 2027.
Adam Hussain as Aadi Alahan
Taking to Instagram, Adam announced his departure with a sweet post.
'I guess the secrets out now! As some of you may have heard, I will be leaving Coronation Street for new pastures,' the actor penned, alongside a recent photo of the full Corrie cast.
'Over the 5 years I've spent there I have learned so much about the world and the industry and now feel I am ready to spread my wings a little. I have made friends that will last a lifetime and will surely miss such a special family!
'This isn't a farewell for Aadi however, more like a see you later!
Daniel Brocklebank as Billy Mayhew
After 11 years, it's off up to the heavens above for Billy, as an explosive death story has been teased following the announcement of the character's axing.
Discussing his departure, Daniel said: 'I have been working on Corrie for a quarter of my life. I have adored every minute I have been in that building and have never not look forward to going into work.
He added: 'I love everyone who works on this show and whilst I am sad to be going, I am equally excited to see what the future holds.'
Producer of the show Kate Brooks noted: 'Billy will be involved in a major storyline over the coming months, which will see him tested in ways he never imagined, as friendships and his faith are pushed to the limit.
'We're incredibly sad to bid farewell to Dan, who has been fantastic in some of Corrie's biggest storylines over the past few years, most notably Paul's MND.
'An actor of immeasurable talent and skill, and an absolute treasure behind the scenes – he will be missed by all of us on the cobbles.'