Coronation Street has confirmed its second death of 2026 in a dramatic early-release episode on ITVX, and this time the tragedy unfolds inside George Shuttleworth’s own business. Mrs Ripley has died after collapsing at Shuttleworth’s funeral parlour, leaving George shaken and fearing the consequences. As the year’s losses mount, these are truly sad times for George.
Coronation Street Confirms Second 2026 Death In Early ITVX Episode
Friday’s episode on 27 February confirms that Mrs Ripley has passed away. The elderly client collapsed during a visit to Shuttleworth’s, and despite George’s quick call for an ambulance, she could not be saved.
Viewers last saw George anxiously waiting for help to arrive, still hoping that paramedics would turn the situation around. Sadly, the latest episode confirms that she died. Although Mrs Ripley only appeared in a handful of scenes, her passing carries heavy consequences for George.
Earlier this year, the soap shocked fans by killing off regular character Billy Mayhew during the dramatic Corriedale crossover special. Now, with another death confirmed before the year properly settles, Coronation Street signals a grim start to 2026. For George, this tragedy feels deeply personal because it happened on his premises. Instead of simply arranging a funeral, he now faces the fallout from a death that occurred under his roof.
Sad Times For George As Guilt And Fear Take Over
Mrs Ripley’s death lands at the worst possible moment for George. His business already faces scrutiny after newcomer Annie accused him of scamming her late mother out of £10,000. George denies the claim, but the accusation has already raised eyebrows in Weatherfield.
As Christina, Glenda and Todd gather around him, George admits he feels “terrible” about what happened. He struggles with guilt and questions whether they may have upset Mrs Ripley during her final days.
Christina acknowledges there is a tiny chance that some people might see the situation as more than coincidence. The conversation quickly spirals into a painful discussion about whether anyone could genuinely believe George is “bumping off widows for their inheritance.”
The very idea horrifies him, yet the fact that it is even being mentioned leaves him despairing over his damaged reputation. With Mrs Ripley now confirmed as the second character to die in 2026, Coronation Street delivers another emotional blow. Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for more Coronation Street spoilers.