Coronation Street's George Shuttleworth Faces Unprecedented Crisis in ITVX Premiere
In a shocking twist released early on ITVX, Coronation Street legend George Shuttleworth, portrayed by Tony Maudsley, finds himself in a harrowing situation when a client dies right in front of him. This dramatic event unfolds in the episode set for Thursday, February 26, 2026, which is now available for streaming on YouTube and ITVX ahead of its television broadcast.
Legal Troubles and Reputation at Stake
George, the street's local undertaker, is no stranger to death, but witnessing it firsthand leaves him reeling. His recent woes stem from a scandal where a client named him the sole beneficiary of her will, sparking outrage from her daughter, Annie. Convinced that George manipulated her mother, Annie has sought legal counsel from Adam Barlow, played by Sam Robertson, putting George's reputation and business in jeopardy.
Compounding the issue, Christina Boyd, portrayed by Amy Robbins, has a knack for making ill-timed comments. Earlier this week, she joked about George cozying up to clients for their wills, unaware that a customer overheard. George was mortified, fearing further damage to his already tarnished image.
A Fateful Decision and Tragic Discovery
In tonight's episode, George considers relinquishing the money from the will after client Joan ignores his calls. Christina warns that backing down might imply guilt, arguing he should honor the deceased's wishes. However, Adam advises George to give up the funds to avoid a messy legal battle, revealing that Annie suspects Christina as a co-conspirator, citing her past as a con artist.
Just as things seem to improve, Joan visits Shuttleworth's funeral home, praising George's honesty and requesting he handle her sister's funeral. Touched by the comparison to his father, George reflects on his business values, only to make a horrifying discovery: Joan has died on the premises. This incident could not have come at a worse time, with George's legal troubles looming large.
Implications for George's Future
The death of Joan in George's company raises serious questions about how the community will react, potentially sealing the fate of Shuttleworth's business. As the storyline unfolds, viewers are left wondering if this is the final blow for the undertaker, adding to the suspense of the ongoing legal drama.
This early release on ITVX highlights the evolving nature of soap opera consumption, offering fans exclusive access to dramatic plot twists before traditional broadcasts. The episode delves into themes of trust, reputation, and the unpredictable nature of life on the cobbles.
