After 25 years of chaos, comedy, and classic feuds (yes, Gail Platt, we’re looking at you), Coronation Street icon Eileen Grimshaw is preparing to leave Weatherfield. But fans, take a breath, this exit doesn’t come in a body bag. Actress Sue Cleaver has confirmed Eileen won’t be killed off, and she had a major say in how her swan song would play out.
A Coronation Street Goodbye Four Years in the Making
Eileen‘s exit from the cobbles follows after her sister Julie Carp‘s tragic death, a moment that leaves her shaken. Though followers of the show worried she‘d go after her sister into despair, Sue confirmed she ensured it wouldn‘t happen.
She explained that producers offered her the choice, and she fought for a happy ending. She didn‘t want Eileen written off entirely, detailing that she enjoyed the show too much. Indeed, the character‘s exit reflects Sue‘s own real-life decision to adopt change in her 60s. She revealed it was time to start new avenues and go beyond her comfort zone.
Jason Grimshaw Returns to Take Mum Away
In classic soap tradition, no big exit would be complete without the return of a familiar face through the door. Here comes Ryan Thomas, who was Eileen‘s son Jason for 16 years. Although Ryan had long since retired from acting, Sue phoned him herself last year with a heartfelt plea: return and rescue Eileen from Weatherfield.
Ryan couldn‘t resist. He promised to come back, and Sue describedthe experience as “really special“ sharing her last day with him by her side. Jason returns for Julie‘s funeral, reconnecting with Eileen and Todd, and motivating Eileen‘s impulsive choice to quit the Street and accompany Jason to Thailand.
Corrie Pays Tribute as One Era Ends
Talking about her decision to leave, Sue explained she had consideredit for four years. With her son being an adult and having no parental responsibilities remaining, she felt the moment was appropriate. She admitted the most terrifying part was deciding to do it, but once it was decided, it was perfect.
Creator Kate Brooks endorsed Sue‘s 25-year stint, describing Eileen asan integral component of the show‘s heritage and deeming her legendary feud with Gail one for the Corrie books. Meanwhile, colleague Tony Maudsley celebrated with a picture of the Grimshaw crew and the caption: “Farewell Eyelash!”
Stay tuned to Soap Opera Daily for even more iconic departures, shocking comebacks, and all the Coronation Street updates from your favorites.
