Coronation Street is set to begin the New Year with a devastating tragedy, as beloved vicar Billy Mayhew will leave the cobbles for good in a coffin. The character's murder, long speculated by fans, has now been effectively confirmed, marking a dramatic end to actor Daniel Brocklebank's 12-year tenure on the ITV soap.
A Vicar's Fate Sealed
The exit for Reverend Billy Mayhew was announced earlier in 2025, with immediate rumours swirling that he would be killed off. These suspicions were later given weight by paparazzi photos showing cast members filming a funeral scene on the famous Manchester set. Show producer Kate Brooks hinted at the dramatic nature of the departure, stating: 'Billy will be involved in a major storyline over the coming months, which will see him tested in ways he never imagined, as friendships and his faith are pushed to the limit.'
Fans have long theorised that Billy would meet his end at the hands of Theo (James Cartwright), the abusive boyfriend of Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce). This forms a crucial part of the soap's ongoing and harrowing domestic violence narrative. The surly scaffolder has always viewed Billy as a threat due to the vicar's romantic history with Todd.
The Path to a Shocking Discovery
The storyline is set to intensify in upcoming episodes. At a joint party for George (Tony Maudsley) and Glenda (Jodie Prenger) in the Bistro, Billy will see Theo's mask slip. The tension escalates when Nick Tilsley (Ben Price) invites Todd out, prompting Sarah Barlow to reveal that Nick was Todd's first crush, which causes Theo to glare menacingly.
Growing increasingly concerned, Billy quizzes Alya Nazir (Sair Khan) about the signs of domestic abuse, recalling the ordeal her grandmother Yasmeen endured with Geoff Metcalfe. His suspicions lead him and Summer to visit an uneasy Todd. When Billy vaguely mentions a 'parishioner' suffering abuse, Theo is quick to interrogate him, leaving Billy evasive and wondering if the abuser is now onto him.
The shocking truth is finally revealed at the wedding of Debbie and Ronnie. When Todd spills orange juice on his shirt, Theo orders him to clean it. A worried Billy follows Todd into the gents' toilets, where he is horrified to find Todd rinsing his shirt in the basin, revealing the brutal bruises on his body.
An Emotional Farewell After 12 Years
Speaking about his departure, actor Daniel Brocklebank shared his feelings on leaving the nation's favourite street. 'I have been working on Corrie for a quarter of my life,' he said. 'I have adored every minute I have been in that building and have never not looked forward to going into work. I love everyone who works on this show and whilst I am sad to be going, I am equally excited to see what the future holds.'
The central question now hanging over Weatherfield is whether Billy's discovery and his subsequent confrontation with Theo will lead directly to his demise. Will Todd be able to talk Billy down, or will the vicar's determination to expose the truth ultimately cost him his life? Viewers will have to tune in to see the tragic culmination of this major storyline, which promises to leave a lasting impact on the Street's residents.
