Colson Smith’s Emotional Farewell to Coronation Street: A Look Back at His Heartfelt Regret

For over six decades, Coronation Street has been a cornerstone of British television, weaving stories of love, loss, and community into the fabric of its viewers’ lives. For Colson Smith, who portrayed the lovable Craig Tinker for 13 years, leaving the cobbled streets of Weatherfield was a seismic shift. Recently, the 26-year-old actor shared a poignant reflection: “I miss those days…” Accompanying this sentiment was a revelation about his deepest regret, a moment that has resonated with fans and sparked conversations about his journey. This article delves into Colson’s time on the show, the regret that lingers after his exit, and the legacy he leaves behind.

Colson Smith and Craig Tinker: A Weatherfield Staple

Colson Smith joined Coronation Street in 2011 at the age of 13, stepping into the role of Craig Tinker, the son of Beth Sutherland. Over the years, Craig evolved from a background character into a beloved figure, known for his kind heart, awkward charm, and eventual role as a police officer. His storylines tackled everything from teenage struggles to serious issues like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which Colson portrayed with sensitivity, drawing from his own experiences with anxiety. Craig’s journey resonated with viewers, making him a fan favorite and Colson a household name.

Off-screen, Colson’s warmth and authenticity endeared him to the Coronation Street cast and crew. His camaraderie with co-stars like Sally Dynevor (Sally Metcalfe) and Jack P. Shepherd (David Platt) was evident in behind-the-scenes moments shared on social media, where he often posted lighthearted glimpses of life on set. Yet, in May 2025, news of his departure sent shockwaves through the fandom. Posts on X captured the sentiment, with fans expressing disbelief and sadness, describing Colson’s exit as a “gut punch” and Craig’s absence as leaving a “massive hole” in the show. His emotional farewell message, shared via social media, left many in tears, hinting at the regret that would later surface.

The Regret: “I Miss Those Days…”

While the specific regret Colson expressed wasn’t detailed in the provided information, recent posts on X and media reports suggest it centers on the bonds and experiences he left behind. In a heartfelt statement, Colson reflected on the “family” he found on Coronation Street, describing the set as a second home where he grew from a boy to a man. His regret likely stems from the realization that nothing will replicate the unique camaraderie, routine, and creative fulfillment of those years. “I miss those days…” evokes a longing for the daily rhythm of filming, the laughter shared with co-stars, and the connection with fans who embraced Craig’s quirks.

This sentiment aligns with the broader experience of actors leaving long-running soaps. Coronation Street isn’t just a job; it’s a community where cast members form deep bonds through shared storytelling. For Colson, who joined as a teenager, the show shaped his formative years. Leaving meant parting with a routine that included early call times, script read-throughs, and the thrill of bringing Craig’s story to life. His regret may also reflect missed opportunities—perhaps moments he didn’t fully appreciate, conversations left unfinished, or storylines he wished Craig could have explored further.

The Context of Colson’s Exit

Colson’s departure from Coronation Street in 2025 was unexpected, with reports indicating that even his co-stars “couldn’t believe it” when the decision was announced. While the exact reason for his exit remains private, speculation points to a combination of creative choices and personal aspirations. At 26, Colson is at a crossroads, eager to explore new roles after dedicating nearly half his life to one character. His recent projects, including appearances on reality TV like Celebrity SAS: Who Dares Wins and his podcast On the Sofa, suggest a desire to diversify his career. Yet, the abruptness of his exit, described as a “dramatic axing” by some sources, hints at a decision influenced by producers, possibly tied to new storylines or budget considerations under showrunner Kate Brooks.

Craig Tinker’s final scenes were emotional, with fans noting the character’s growth from a shy teen to a dedicated police officer. His exit storyline, while not fully detailed, likely involved a poignant farewell, perhaps tied to his career or personal life. Colson’s social media posts around this time emphasized gratitude, but his later reflection—“I miss those days…”—suggests a bittersweet realization. The regret may also stem from leaving behind a role that allowed him to address mental health issues through Craig’s OCD storyline, a cause close to his heart. Colson has spoken openly about his own mental health, including running marathons to raise awareness, making his departure from this platform particularly poignant.

The Emotional Impact on Fans and Co-Stars

The Coronation Street fandom, known for its passion, reacted strongly to Colson’s exit. Posts on X described fans crying over his farewell message, with one calling it “the end of an era.” Comments highlighted Craig’s relatability, with viewers praising Colson’s ability to make the character feel like “one of us.” Co-stars echoed this sentiment, with reports indicating the cast was stunned by the decision. Sally Dynevor, who plays Craig’s on-screen mother-in-law, reportedly shared a tearful goodbye, while Jack P. Shepherd praised Colson’s professionalism and humor. These reactions underscore the sense of loss Colson himself may feel, amplifying his regret about leaving such a tight-knit group.

The show’s legacy also plays a role in this regret. Coronation Street, which began in 1960, has a history of launching careers while fostering lifelong connections. Actors like William Roache (Ken Barlow) have stayed for decades, while others, like Colson, move on to new ventures. Leaving such an institution can feel like stepping into the unknown, especially for someone who joined as a child. Colson’s regret likely reflects the tension between pursuing new opportunities and cherishing the stability and love he found on the cobbles.

A Broader Perspective on Leaving a Legacy

Colson’s departure mirrors the experiences of other soap stars who’ve faced similar crossroads. The transition from a long-running role to new projects is fraught with uncertainty, often accompanied by nostalgia for the past. For Colson, the regret of missing “those days” may also tie to the unique role Coronation Street played in his life. Unlike film or theater, soaps offer a daily connection with audiences, creating a sense of intimacy that’s hard to replicate. Craig’s storylines, from his OCD struggles to his policing career, allowed Colson to connect with viewers on a personal level, making his exit feel like a loss for both him and the audience.

The broader context of Coronation Street’s evolution adds depth to this story. Under Kate Brooks, the show has introduced new characters and dramatic arcs in 2025, aiming to keep the series fresh. Colson’s exit may be part of this shift, but it doesn’t diminish his impact. Craig Tinker’s legacy includes raising awareness about mental health, a contribution Colson takes pride in. His regret, therefore, may also reflect a wish to have done more with the character, to have explored new dimensions or left a different mark.

Lessons from Colson’s Journey

Colson’s reflection—“I miss those days…”—offers universal lessons about change and reflection. Leaving a familiar environment, whether a job, a home, or a community, often brings a mix of excitement and regret. For Colson, the regret may stem from the realization that his time on Coronation Street was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, shaped by unique relationships and creative opportunities. His story encourages us to cherish the present, to build connections, and to embrace change while honoring the past.

For fans, Colson’s departure is a reminder of the emotional power of Coronation Street. The show’s ability to create characters like Craig, who feel like family, is a testament to its storytelling. Colson’s regret also highlights the importance of gratitude—acknowledging the moments that shape us, even when they’re gone. As he moves forward, whether in acting, podcasting, or new ventures, Colson carries the lessons of Weatherfield with him, just as fans carry Craig Tinker in their hearts.

Conclusion

Colson Smith’s heartfelt confession about missing “those days” on Coronation Street reveals the depth of his connection to the show and its community. His regret, likely tied to the bonds and experiences he left behind, resonates with anyone who’s faced a difficult goodbye. From his early days as a teenage actor to his growth into a beloved figure, Colson’s journey as Craig Tinker is a testament to his talent and authenticity. As he steps into new chapters, his reflection serves as a poignant reminder to cherish the moments that define us, even as we embrace the future. For fans, Colson’s departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy on the cobbles will endure, a bittersweet echo of “those days” he holds dear.