Weatherfield and Coronation Street viewers are mourning, and so is Craig Tinker. His devastating death left fans reeling and a gap on the cobbles, and now actor Colson Smith, who has lived the much-loved character for 14 years, is finally speaking out about his emotional departure.
Colson Wanted Craig’s Story to End for Good
When Colson was summoned by Corrie executive Kate Brooks, he already had a good idea what it was about. Having worked on the show since he was 12, he knew how it operated. He suspected Craig’s story was coming to an end—and so it did.
As they talked, Colson asked point-blank if Craig was going to be killed off. Kate hesitated, but Colson explained that it was what he wanted. He didn’t want an open door or a potential return. For him, Craig’s on-duty death seemed like the ultimate ending—final, impactful, and in the right way. “No ghost scenes,” he said. “The day I die is the day I die.
Coronation Street: Behind the Scenes of Craig’s Last Days
Shooting the exit story was an emotional rollercoaster. The episodes were guided by Corrie veteran Duncan Foster, who directed Colson to be totally at ease. Monday’s instalment featured Craig’s life at its happiest, paving the way for the heart-wrenching twist to follow.
From tender moments throughout the Street to that violent precinct confrontation with Mick, Colson enjoyed having the chance to bid farewell on his terms. For his final night, he went back to the lot, sat outside The Rovers, and quietly savoured it all.
That same week, he also presented cast and crew with small Lego replicas of Craig, complete with police hats and stickers. It was a sentimental farewell—one that had even Andy Whyment in tears prior to filming commencing.
His last scene was with David Neilson in Roy’s Rolls. At the end of production, the studio erupted in a show of applause, and Colson delivered an emotional farewell speech. At home, he has kept mementos—Craig’s police hat, framed costume pieces, and his first and last scripts.
What’s Next for Colson—And What Now for Lisa and Carla?
Colson concedes that Coronation Street will never be replaced, but he can’t wait for what comes next. He’s looking forward to trying his hand at presenting, getting into comedy, and acting characters beyond the world of Craig. And yes, he hinted that there are already projects in the pipeline.
At the same time, back on the cobbles, Craig’s death is hard on Lisa Swain. It’s a bitter reminder that life can be over in an instant. Coming home from the hospital, Lisa informs Carla that she wants to grab happiness while she can. But Carla wonders—is it just the emotion speaking, or does Lisa actually mean it?
Their future is now in doubt. Will Craig’s tragic departure bring them closer together—or drive them apart? For all your Coronation Street news, plot twists, and weepies, stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily.
