He’s home after almost a decade of absence, but for a reason you won’t be expecting. Jason Grimshaw has returned to Coronation Street, at just the right time for one of the programme’s biggest departures. But is it a genuine return of the heart or a flying visit before legging it again?
It’s Been a While
Jason hasn’t been spotted in Weatherfield since 2016, when he set off with a clean slate in Thailand. Now, nine years on, he’s strolled back into the Rovers, and a great deal of emotional baggage too. His return couldn’t be more symbolic, either. With his mother Eileen Grimshaw preparing to bid farewell, Jason’s return coincides with her last scenes.
Ryan Thomas, who portrays Jason, admitted Sue Cleaver approached him in person to ask him back for her departure. That was all the persuading he needed. He added it was right to be involved in her farewell and back to the show that provided his break.
Coronation Street Actor Has Changed—But Not Completely
When Jason shows up, it’s clear he’s changed a bit. No more builder’s gear, he’s now rocking linen trousers, beads, and a laid-back look that screams “Thailand life.” Ryan explained that Jason has embraced a different way of living, but deep down, he’s still the same guy.
He’s had a tough time, too. In Ryan’s words, Jason’s girlfriend has dumped him, he’s penniless, and he’s essentially returned to Weatherfield for some solace. Telling Eileen he’s there for her, the reality is he needs her support more than ever.
So… Is He Staying?
Don’t get your hopes up. While fans might wish that Jason would remain, Ryan made it clear this is merely a temporary return. It’s all in Eileen’s goodbye and isn’t the beginning of a comeback for the long haul, at least not yet.
Ryan insisted he has no regrets about departing the show in 2016, despite it being a gamble. He felt then that he was prepared to move on and attempt something different and break out of the Corrie bubble. But returning now has been the ideal thing to reconnect and have a proper goodbye—at least for this time.
Tune in to find out what happens when Jason returns, and how it impacts Eileen’s dramatic departure. And for every latest Coronation Street arrival and departure, stay with Soap Opera Daily!
