There’s a lot happening behind the scenes on Coronation Street, and it all comes down to cast changes. Some well-known characters are officially on their way out, several big names have already left in 2025, and one familiar face is set to return just in time for Christmas. If you’re trying to keep track of who’s leaving, who’s already gone, and who’s coming back, here’s everything you need to know.
Who Is Leaving Coronation Street?
One of the biggest exits confirmed is Billy Mayhew. Daniel Brocklebank will leave the soap in 2026 after playing the vicar for 11 years. Billy’s exit will follow the devastating loss of his husband, Paul Foreman, with the storyline set to take a dark turn as grief and anger start to consume him. Speaking about his departure, Brocklebank said Coronation Street has been part of his life for a quarter of his lifetime. While he admitted it’s sad to say goodbye, he also shared that he’s excited about what comes next.
Producer Kate Brooks confirmed Billy will be at the centre of a major storyline before he leaves and he will be missed by the cast. Another emotional exit is already mapped out for Debbie Webster. Sue Devaney’s character is being written out through a long-running young-onset dementia storyline, which will continue until 2027. Debbie has already begun a journey that is expected to be one of the most heartbreaking stories in years.
Who Has Already Left Coronation Street?
2025 has already been a big year for departures. Fans have said goodbye to Daisy Midgeley, Yasmeen Metcalfe, Max Turner, Aadi Alahan, and Jenny Connor, changing the look and feel of the Street in a major way. These exits have wrapped up long-running stories and opened the door for new drama. Dee-Dee Bailey is also preparing to leave. Channique Sterling-Brown is expected to exit later in 2025.
Over the past three years, Dee-Dee has been central to the Bailey family and several major storylines. But the actress has reportedly decided to move on to new projects. Adding to the uncertainty, reports in July 2025 claimed ITV is planning further budget cuts across Coronation Street and Emmerdale. It was suggested that as many as one in ten cast members could be affected, with some actors protected by contracts while others are paid per episode. That means more exits could still be on the way as 2026 approaches.
Who Is Returning to Coronation Street?
Amid all the goodbyes, there’s some welcome news for fans. Gail Platt is set to return to Coronation Street this Christmas, just a year after she left the show. While bosses are keeping details quiet, it’s been confirmed Gail will reconnect with her family on Christmas Day.
Sources say the timing couldn’t be better, as the Platts are facing fresh drama after coping without Gail. Her return is expected to be emotional and possibly complicated, as she steps back into family life. With several characters gone, more exits ahead, and a familiar face returning, Coronation Street is clearly heading into a period of change. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Coronation Street spoilers.