Channel 4 Gogglebox's Izzi Warner says goodbye after Coronation Street star confirms exit

ITV Coronation Street fans were left stunned as Colson Smith confirmed his departure from the iconic soap. The actor, who has portrayed Craig Tinker in Weatherfield since he was just 12 years old, has become a firm favourite on the ITV show.

However, he is set to hang up his character's police uniform after revealing his upcoming exit. Posting on Instagram, Smith shared: "Autumn last year I was told that Craig Tinkers time on the Cobbles is to come to end in 2025. I've LOVED every single second of my 14 year stay as a resident on the GREATEST street in the world."

He continued, expressing his gratitude and excitement for the future: "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! ", reports the Liverpool Echo.

Gogglebox star Izzi Warner, known for her candid opinions on the Channel 4 show, expressed her disappointment at the news, commenting: "Goodbye to the hardest working copper ever seen on the cobbles! ".

Colson's co-stars also felt the impact of his announcement. Andy Whyment, famed for his role as Kirk Sutherland, posted a heartfelt message: "I'm still absolutely gutted and you know how much you're gonna be missed by us all."

Sue Devaney, known for her role as Debbie Webster on screen, expressed her support: "Love you Cols. so proud of you. Looking forward to watching your journey and can't wait to see all your new exciting projects come to fruition! Shine bright young man and can we still have a party in your mega garden please? "

Lucy Fallon, who plays Bethany Platt, enthusiastically added: "now that i've stopped crying about it, i can't WAIT to see you slay the day. x" Sally Ann Matthews, embodying Jenny Bradley, shared her affection by saying: "Grandma loves ya and can't wait to watch you fly! x" Alan Halsall, portraying Tyrone Dobbs, admitted his feelings by stating: "Gutted mate, but also excited for you, get out there and smash it."

Lastly, Tina O'Brien, stepping into the shoes of Sarah Platt, conveyed her sentiments with a simple but heartfelt: "Love you Cols".