Coronation Street fans are preparing for a bittersweet goodbye as Craig Tinker, played by Colson Smith, inches closer to a dramatic exit from the beloved ITV soap. After over a decade of growing up on the cobbles, Craig’s story is reaching a heroic climax—one that promises emotional farewells, professional milestones, and a devastating end.

Currently serving as a uniformed police officer, Craig has always been portrayed as the kind-hearted, well-meaning cop with an earnest sense of duty. Over time, he’s grown in both his professional and personal life, transforming from the slightly awkward young lad into a committed officer of the law. However, Craig’s moral compass hasn’t always pointed true north. His deep loyalty to loved ones has occasionally led him down ethically murky paths—most notably when he covered up the hit-and-run incident involving Faye and Emma, shielding them from the legal consequences.

That decision resurfaced when newcomer Kit Green arrived in Weatherfield, suspicious of Craig’s involvement and eager to dig up secrets. Kit cunningly got Craig drunk, coaxing out details about the old cover-up, hinting that Craig’s past may still have consequences. However, for now, it seems the storm has passed, and Craig is rewarded with encouraging news about his career.

In upcoming episodes, Craig is offered another placement with the Criminal Investigation Department (CID), marking a significant step up from his current patrol duties. The role promises more complex investigations and a deeper involvement in serious crimes—a move Craig has long hoped for. This opportunity is framed as a pivotal moment in his career, giving him the validation and momentum he’s worked so hard to earn.

But the optimism is short-lived.

Behind the scenes, actor Colson Smith has confirmed his departure from Coronation Street, and reports strongly suggest that his character will be killed off in an emotional summer storyline. According to The Sun, Craig’s exit is being written as a “hero’s death,” one that reflects his personal growth and commitment to doing the right thing. It’s a decision that reportedly wasn’t made lightly, especially given how integral Craig has become to the community of Weatherfield over the years.

A show insider shared, “Craig has grown up on the street and he’s become part of it, so it was a tough decision to make but one that will be worth it. PC Tinker will meet his maker in heroic circumstances this summer and there won’t be a dry eye in the house when it goes out.”

Colson Smith, who has played Craig since 2011, is said to be handling the exit with grace, viewing it as the end of a meaningful chapter and the beginning of a new journey. For a character introduced as a teenager and gradually transformed into a figure of strength and moral integrity, this planned farewell serves as both a tribute to Craig’s evolution and a poignant send-off for fans.

The storyline will likely blend his personal history with professional stakes, potentially tying his final moments to past secrets, unresolved tension with Kit, or even a risky case gone wrong. Given Craig’s history of bending the rules for the sake of loyalty, his heroic death may stem from a final, selfless act that redeems earlier mistakes.

As the summer storyline unfolds, viewers can expect emotional scenes that reflect the depth of Craig’s relationships—particularly with Faye, Beth, and the wider Weatherfield community. His loss will be deeply felt, not only because of the sacrifice itself, but because Craig represents something rare in soap storytelling: a slow-burning, steady character arc built on growth, flaws, and heartfelt sincerity.

Colson’s departure also raises questions about future dynamics in the show. How will Beth cope with losing her son? Will Kit use Craig’s death to his advantage? And how will the CID opportunity—once so full of promise—be remembered in light of the tragedy?

As fans brace themselves for the inevitable goodbye, many are already expressing grief and nostalgia online. Craig may not have always been the most dramatic character on screen, but his reliability, warmth, and evolution have earned him a loyal fan base. His upcoming heroic exit will not only bring closure to his storyline but also mark the end of an era for Coronation Street.

Whether his final scenes show him saving someone, solving a crucial case, or simply standing by his values, Craig Tinker’s last moments are sure to leave a lasting impact. Viewers should prepare for an emotional ride—one that honors a decade of development and says goodbye to one of Weatherfield’s most genuine souls.