The cobbles of Coronation Street are set for a dramatic shake-up as 2025 continues to bring a wave of cast changes to the iconic ITV soap. From emotional farewells to shocking returns, the residents of Weatherfield are in for a turbulent year.
Major Coronation Street Exits
The Street is saying a heartfelt goodbye to several long-standing characters. Daniel Brocklebank has confirmed his departure after playing vicar Billy Mayhew for eleven years. The actor expressed his sadness at leaving but excitement for future projects. Show producer Kate Brooks promised Billy would be involved in a major, faith-testing storyline before his exit later this year.
Another significant loss is solicitor Dee-Dee Bailey, played by Channique Sterling-Brown. The actress, who joined in 2022, is leaving to pursue new ventures, with her departure expected in the coming months.
In a move that stunned fans, Sally Ann Matthews announced her exit after 39 years playing Jenny Connor. The character made her final appearance in the episode broadcast on Wednesday, October 1.
Adam Hussain has also left his role as Aadi Alahan, with the character departing for a new life in India back in August. The actor shared an emotional post on Instagram, calling his time on the show a 'privilege'.
Shock Returns and New Arrivals
Amid the departures, some familiar faces are making a welcome comeback. Lucy Fallon has returned from maternity leave, with her character Bethany Platt reappearing on October 3rd in a storyline involving police officer Kit Green.
In even bigger news, Catherine Tyldesley is reprising her role as Eva Price on a full-time basis. The character, last seen in 2018, returned to Weatherfield at the end of October, but she wasn't alone.
Eva arrived with a new family in tow, introducing a host of new characters. Her partner is Ben Driscoll, played by Aaron McCusker. Ben's mother, Maggie Driscoll, is portrayed by Pauline McLynn. They also brought Ben's sons, Will and Ollie Driscoll, played by Lucas Hodgson-Wale and Raphael Akuwudike respectively.
Dark Storylines and Future Changes
The new family unit has brought a disturbing storyline to the forefront. Will's old sports teacher, Megan (Beth Nixon), arrived with them, but it was soon revealed she is actually grooming Will, who believes he is in a relationship with her.
Producer Kate Brooks has teased that 2025 will see more 'unexpected exits' that will 'send shockwaves' through the community. Furthermore, it was reported in late July that ITV is planning budget cuts that could lead to one in ten cast members being axed from both Coronation Street and Emmerdale, potentially affecting the show's 84-strong permanent cast.
With beloved characters departing, familiar faces returning, and new residents bringing fresh drama, the rest of 2025 promises to be anything but quiet on the nation's most famous street.
