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Coronation Street is loosing a fair few characters including some fan favourites, with some cast quitting the ITV soap and others written out of the show in what’s set to be a big year

There’s going to be some big changes to Coronation Street this year, with a number of exits confirmed and rumoured.

Soap boss Kate Brooks warned fans to expect several departures in the coming weeks and months, and now it’s been revealed who is leaving – with more exits no doubt planned. Kate told The Mirror just weeks ago that fans would be surprised by some of the characters leaving, and there would be lots of them.

She did not give away who she was referring to, but since then a number of announcements have been made. In recent weeks we’ve had an icon leave the show for good, and a character killed off in tragic scenes.

Spoilers for the weeks ahead have teased more tragedy and more possible exits, with a stunt looming, a trial and a possible comeuppance. So who has left recently and who else is on their way out? Here’s all the confirmed and rumoured exits, including those who have been written out of the ITV soap.

Coronation Street is about to lose a fair few characters including some fan favourites ( 
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Confirmed exits

Debbie Webster played by Sue Devaney

It was confirmed weeks ago that Debbie would be diagnosed with dementia in a devastating storyline on the ITV soap. While it will be long-running, the storyline is set to end with actress Sue’s departure as Debbie passes away.

It’s not been confirmed when this will happen or when she will be diagnosed. A source recently told The Mirror of Sue’s reaction to the heartbreaking plot: “Sue is a total professional and is already putting her all into what she sees as hugely important long running storyline. She saw the positive impact of the MND storyline and hopes that her dementia story can have the same effect and raise awareness of the condition.”

Craig Tinker played by Colson Smith

Craig Tinker has been written out of the soap after 14 years ( 
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Craig has been written out of the soap after 14 years. The news was confirmed by The Mirror, while actor Colson also confirmed his exit on social media this week.

He shared: “Autumn last year I was told that Craig Tinker’s time on the Cobbles is to come to an end in 2025. I’ve LOVED every single second of my 14 year stay as a resident on the greatest street in the world.

“I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street. I’ve learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I’m excited to play out the exit story for Our Craigy. For me, this is the end of the beginning. I genuinely can’t wait to see what chapter two has in store for me. Long live the cobbles!”

Daisy Midgeley played by Charlotte Jordan

Daisy Midgeley will leave Corrie ( 
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The latest departure to be announced was Daisy, played by actress Charlotte, after four years on the cobbles. The news comes amid the character being caught up in a shocking pregnancy twist.

Daisy found out she was expecting her first child over Christmas, with her yet to uncover whether Kit Green or Daniel Osbourne are the father. Daisy’s departure, thought to be airing later this year, was reported on Tuesday with Charlotte revealing: “My time at Coronation Street is something I’ll always cherish. After a brilliant four years for Daisy, it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.”

A source told The Sun that “Charlotte has loved her time on the cobbles but is young, ambitious and hungry to see what else is out there for her. She told bosses last April that her next contract would be her last, giving them a year to craft an exciting exit storyline. She’s still filming now and her final scenes will play out in early summer. She’s adored by cast and crew and will be hugely missed.”

Eileen Grimshaw played by Sue Cleaver

Eileen Grimshaw, played by Sue Cleaver, is leaving Corrie ( 
Image:
ITV)Another big name reportedly leaving the ITV soap is icon Eileen, played by Sue Cleaver. Sue has had various breaks over recent years, but now she’s leaving for good.

“I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on Coronation Street,” Sue said in a statement shared with the media. She went on say “The door is still firmly open but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures and live fearlessly.” Meanwhile, Sue said that she has has “adored” her time on the show, she’s realised it’s time to try new projects.

It’s believed that conversations about her departure first started last summer after she took an extended period of leave from the show to take part in the theatre production of Sister Act as as Mother Superior. The early conversations “gave writers plenty of time to create a strong exit storyline for her, which viewers will love.”

Meanwhile, Corrie boss Kate said in a statement: “We’re sad to bid farewell to the wonderful Sue Cleaver. Over the past twenty five years, Eileen Grimshaw has been at the heart of some of the most memorable and iconic Corrie storylines, and her onscreen rivalry with Gail Platt will undoubtedly go down in Corrie folklore.

“There’s certainly no one quite like Eileen, and her character will be hugely missed on the Cobbles. We wish Sue all the very best as she embarks on her next exciting chapter.”

Bethany Platt played by Lucy Fallon

Bethany Platt actress Lucy Fallon will soon go on maternity leave ( 
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Thought to be a temporary exit, Bethany actress Lucy will soon go on maternity leave ahead of the birth of her second child. In what’s a big time ahead for the Platts and Bethany, spoilers have hinted a move to London for the character and this could be her exit plot.

It’s not thought Lucy is leaving the show for good, but she is likely to be offscreen for a while this year. More information will soon be revealed on the character’s soap future, and how she leaves.

Evelyn Plummer played by Maureen Lipman

Maureen Lipman is taking a break ( 
Image:
ITV)Another character making somewhat of a temporary exit is Evelyn, with actress Maureen taking some time out of the show. When she returns, the character will be a part-time member of the show.

Spoilers for this week revealed the character would be pursuing a law degree at university, with her moving into halls. Maureen had told The Sun about her looming absence: “I’ll be absent for a while and then coming back. I’m not going to die, but then I’ll be in and out of it because I want to have a bit of a life. David and I are thinking of having a bit of a gap year.”

Mason Radcliffe played by Luca Toolan

Mason Radcliffe was killed off ( 
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An exit that aired just this week is Mason, played by actor Luca. He bowed out in devastating scenes on Monday night with the teen killed off in a knife crime storyline.

Breaking his silence on the departure, Luca spilled: “Of course when I first heard there was a mixture of emotions because I was sad that Mason was going to die and that means I would be leaving, but equally I was really excited and honoured to be part of this storyline because it’s an incredibly important issue that needs to be tackled. I feel so privileged to have had this opportunity to start my professional career at Coronation Street and what a great time I’ve had.”

Gail Platt played by Helen Worth

Corrie icon Gail Platt departed the soap for good after 50 years on Christmas Day ( 
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Corrie icon Gail Platt departed the soap for good after 50 years on Christmas Day. Actress Helen Worth decided earlier last year to leave after five decades, announcing her departure later on in June.

Breaking down in tears on her last day on set, Helen revealed: “The reason I’ve been here all these years, and it’s a lot of years – It’s more than I can think about really, Is because of all of you people that have been here for, well, some of you for all of those fifty years and others for half of that time.

“But I couldn’t have done any of it without you. I really couldn’t. You are the most amazing team of people, and I really do say thank you. And as for this lot, who didn’t tell me (about this). Oh God, I love them so much. I don’t quite know what I’m going to do without you. But thank you for everything.”

Yasmeen Nazir played by Shelley King

Coronation Street star Shelley King has quit the soap after playing Yasmeen Nazir for an impressive 11 years.

Shelley, 69, first appeared on the cobbles in her role as Yasmeen back in 2014 but will exit Weatherfield later this year. It is believed she has already finished her filming and she will disappear from the soap after her final scenes have aired in March.

An insider told The Mirror: “Shelley spoke to producers early last year and advised that after 10 years on the show and being involved in many major storylines during the past decade she had decided the time had come for her to explore other opportunities.

“Shelley is an accomplished stage and television actress and we fully understand her desire to take her career in another direction after 10 years playing the same role. Shelley filmed her final scenes in December and will be onscreen until early spring.”

Rumoured

Lauren Bolton played by Cait Fitton

Lauren Bolton faces trial ( 
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Someone feared to be leaving is Lauren, who awaits trial for the murder of Joel Deering. She killed her abuser in self-defence after he tried to murder her boyfriend Max Turner.

Lauren is currently in prison, and her trial begins next week. With her sharing her fears ahead of her plea, it’s feared the character could be sent to prison for a lengthy sentence if she is found guilty of murder or even manslaughter.

David Platt played by Jack P Shepherd

David Platt faces trouble ( 
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Another character teased to be leaving is David, as he’s about to face a “downfall”. Soap boss Kate revealed he would face a comeuppance of some sort after recent behaviour, and we also know he’s set to feature in a massive stunt.

His actions could lead to him losing people or “things” he holds dear, so might he suffer a tragic loss? Could he end up leaving Weatherfield for good?

Logan and Matty Radcliffe played by Harry Lowbridge and Séamus McGoff

Logan and Matty Radcliffe played by Harry Lowbridge and Séamus McGoff ( 
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In devastating scenes on Monday night we saw Mason’s brothers Logan and Matty brutally attack and kill the teenager. Logan stabbed the character after Matty beat him, and in upcoming scenes Matty is arrested.

While Logan is still on the loose, it’s thought both brothers will leave the show at some point in the near future. Given their crimes and what they did to Mason, there’s just no way they can stay in Weatherfield.

Audrey Roberts played by Sue Nicholls

Audrey Roberts is a soap icon ( 
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Viewers immediately feared the departure of soap icon Sue, who has played Audrey for almost 50 years, after Gail’s exit. Audrey’s onscreen daughter moved away to France on Christmas Day, and some fans wondered if Audrey would also leave the show with the pair having been onscreen together for decades.

It doesn’t seem this is the case, with Corrie boss Kate recently telling The Mirror that Audrey was still very much a huge part of the Platts. So it seems she is going nowhere for now!

Ken Barlow played by William Roache

Ken Barlow, played by Bill Roache, is Corrie’s longest serving character ( 
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Another icon feared to be leaving the show is Ken Barlow, played by Bill Roache. Corrie’s longest serving character is currently at the centre of a shocking drug storyline, with his carer Cassie Plummer.

Cassie has been poisoning Ken in recent weeks, leading to a hospital dash recently. As the plot continues, fans fear it could be the end of Ken who has been on the show since the very first episode back in 1960.

Coronation Street airs Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV1 and ITV X.* Follow Mirror Celebs and TV on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .

ITV’s iconic soap Coronation Street has been labelled as in crisis after multiple stars quit the soap and others were axed, with fans fearful that the show might not survive

Coronation Street is in crisis after multiple exits and shock axing.

The ITV soap marked its 60th anniversary just over four years ago but there are real fears the soap is in crisis after multiple exits and axes, with fan favourites like Eileen Grimshaw ( Sue Cleaver ) and Daisy Midgeley ( Charlotte Jordan ) all leaving the show.

Late last year, new show boss Kate Brooks warned of some unexpected exits ahead. She warned: “There are a few exits this year, and some unexpected ones that will send shockwaves. People might not expect the exits, but there are a few.”

In just the last few weeks, there have been a huge wave of exits and shock axes and also reports of frustrated Coronation Street stars fuming over the changes in secret WhatsApp groups. It had been claimed that some were fuming over it being less “fun” on the set, with cast reportedly working longer days – and a focus on keeping the highest paid stars.

Here’s all the cast that have been confirmed to be leaving – or have already left.

Helen Worth (Gail Platt)

Helen Worth has left her role of Gail Platt ( 
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Gail departed the Cobbles on Christmas Day, alongside recently returned Jesse Chadwick. Helen decided to quit the show after a whopping five decades on screen. At the time her exit was announced, Helen admitted it was the “perfect” time to go.

Speaking about her exit, which saw Gail get her happy ending and move to France, she said: “This year felt like the perfect time to leave the show after celebrating 50 years in the most wonderful job on the most wonderful street in the world.

“I made the decision at the start of the year and spoke to the producers who were very kind and understanding. I have been truly blessed to have been given the most incredible scripts week in week out, and to have worked with fantastic actors, directors and a brilliant crew. The past 50 years have flown by and I don’t think the fact that I am leaving has quite sunk in yet.”

Sue Cleaver (Eileen Grimshaw)

Eileen Grimshaw is leaving the Cobbles
Gail’s rival and Corrie icon Sue Cleaver is also bidding farewell to the Cobbles after 25 years.

Explaining her decision to leave the show, Sue teased a potential return. Expressing her desire to make a change, she said: “I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on Coronation Street. The door is still firmly open but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures and live fearlessly.”

As part of her exit storyline, Katy Cavanagh is making her return as Julie Carp. She said: “We’ve literally started filming that, it’s going to be emotional, it’s going to be hard, I’ve got a lot of friends there, I will still have a connection to it.”

Colson Smith (Craig Tinker)

Colson Smith plays Craig Tinker ( 
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Colson was one of the big names to be axed from Coronation Street after 14 years on the show.

Speaking on his podcast with friends and colleagues Jack P Shephard and Ben Price, he said: “The hardest bit was walking down the stairs knowing you two were there. I just stood in the doorway of the green room and just looked at you two.

“The thing I’m going to miss more than anything in the world isn’t Craig Tinker, it’s the green room. I have learned everything about life in that building. Every good day I’ve had in my life and every bad day I’ve had in my life, I’ve been in there.”

Colson found out last year he’d be leaving the show. In a post on social media, he added: “Autumn last year I was told that Craig Tinkers time on the Cobbles is to come to end in 2025. I’ve LOVED every single second of my 14 year stay as a resident on the GREATEST street in the world. I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation Street. I’ve learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I’m excited to play out the exit story for Our Craigy. For Me, this is just the end of the beginning. I genuinely can’t wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me. LONG LIVE THE COBBLES!”

Luca Toolan (Mason Radcliffe)

Mason died in tragic scenes ( 
Image:
ITV)Mason bowed out of the ITV soap in tragic scenes to kick off the New Year on the Cobbles. He had planned to run away to Germany to work with Stu Carpenter – who also recently left – but in sad scenes, his brothers killed him with a knife in a fight.

Speaking about his big exit storyline, Luca had said: “Of course when I first heard there was a mixture of emotions because I was sad that Mason was going to die and that means I would be leaving, but equally I was really excited and honoured to be part of this storyline because it’s an incredibly important issue that needs to be tackled. I feel so privileged to have had this opportunity to start my professional career at Coronation Street and what a great time I’ve had.”

His final scenes were “exhausting” to film, with Luca admitting: “It was exhausting to film but amazing. I was so focused and a storyline like this is what you crave as an actor. I love the long days and working my butt off and even filming outside in the cold.

“Every single day I would wake up and be absolutely buzzing to go to work. The full crew were so supportive and created an environment that you could put yourself in that emotional headspace and get on with it. It was an experience filming those scenes.”

Lucy Fallon (Bethany Platt)

Bethany will temporarily leave the Cobbles as Lucy goes on maternity leave ( 
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Bethany Platt may have not long returned to Weatherfield but Lucy Fallon will be temporarily written out of the show whilst the actress goes on maternity leave. Amid a big storyline with her partner Daniel Osbourne and his ex Daisy Midgeley, it looks like Bethany could make a move to London to follow her dream job.

Back in August last year, it was announced Lucy was pregnant with her second child. Speaking about her making a return to the show last year, she shared: “I needed that time away. I didn’t go and do an awful lot of work stuff. But I feel like I did quite a lot of life stuff.

“‘I just needed that. I don’t regret leaving at all. It was definitely the right thing for me to do at the time. But then, it was the right thing for me to come back, too. I felt different and a bit weird on my first day.”

Charlotte Jordan (Daisy Midgeley)

Daisy is currently pregnant on the soap
Daisy star Charlotte has also announced she is leaving the show after four years in the fan favourite role.

Speaking about her decision to go, she said: “My time at Coronation Street is something I’ll always cherish. After a brilliant four years for Daisy, it’s time for me to start a new chapter and explore other opportunities.”

Little is known about the exit storyline for Daisy but we do know she is pregnant. However, she is unsure whether her ex Daniel Osbourne or current partner Kit Green is the father of the little one.

A source said of her decision to leave: “Charlotte has loved her time on the cobbles but is young, ambitious and hungry to see what else is out there for her. She told bosses last April that her next contract would be her last, giving them a year to craft an exciting exit storyline. She’s still filming now and her final scenes will play out in early summer. She’s adored by cast and crew and will be missed.”

Sue Devaney (Debbie Webster)

Debbie will leave the Cobbles in a tragic storyline ( 
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Debbie will be diagnosed with dementia in a sad exit storyline for actress Sue Devaney.

“Sue is a total professional and is already putting her all into what she sees as hugely important long running storyline. She saw the positive impact of the MND storyline and hopes that her dementia story can have the same effect and raise awareness of the condition,” an insider told The Mirror of the big storyline which will spell Debbie’s exit from the Cobbles.

Debbie has been at the centre of some big storylines in the soap since joining in 2019.

Shelley King (Yasmeen Metcalfe)

Shelley plays Yasmeen on the soap ( 
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Yasmeen star Shelley has become the most recent name to announce their departure from the show.

“This will be another blow for fans of the show, as Yasmeen is a much-loved character who’s part of the fabric of Corrie. She’s had some huge storylines since she joined the soap in 2014, and she’ll be sorely missed by cast and crew. It’s understood she is leaving so she can explore other projects,” a source said of her departure.

Shelley had been on the show since 2014 and will make her exit this year in big scenes.

Maureen Lipman (Evelyn Plummer)

Evelyn is off to study away from the Cobbles ( 
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Evelyn will be making a temporary exit from the show – but fans will be glad to know its not permanent.

“I’ll be absent for a while and then coming back. I’m not going to die, but then I’ll be in and out of it because I want to have a bit of a life. David and I are thinking of having a bit of a gap year,” she explained.

Evelyn has decided to move into university halls whilst she studies for a law degree at university.

She added last year: “I don’t know how much I’m allowed to say but Evelyn will be going off to do something interesting and unusual – which is my idea. I don’t know how it will play out but I wish to hell that we could have a spin-off of what happens to her. I’m not dying. I haven’t fallen in the Manchester Ship Canal so I will be probably coming back until I’m wheeled off set.”

Coronation Street fans have been left concerned with mass cast exits and ‘false’ reports of the ITV soap being in serious trouble – but Mirror is here to confirm it’s going nowhere

The past few weeks have painted a worrying picture for the future of Coronation Street, after confirmation of a number of big exits and rumours of a soap facing the axe.

With popular cast members written out of the ITV soap and others calling it a day, including legends Helen Worth and Sue Cleaver, who play Gail Platt and Eileen Grimshaw respectively, there’s been concern over where the soap is headed. This hasn’t been helped by brutal reports of a show in trouble, said to be “dying a death” with claims it could disappear from screens completely in a matter of years.

But fear not soap fans, as Corrie viewers old and new have absolutely nothing to worry about. Cast departures, those decided by themselves and those forced by bosses, are typical in the soap world, and are not exactly something new.

Of course it’s sad to wave goodbye to some iconic and long-serving characters, with Daisy Midgeley and Yasmeen Nazir joining Eileen as some of those bidding goodbye for good, amid the recent departures of Mason Radcliffe and icon Gail. There have been some decisions for characters including Craig Tinker and Debbie Webster to be written out of the ITV soap, while Evelyn Plummer star Maureen Lipman announced a while back she would be reducing her time onscreen with a part-time role.

The past few weeks have painted a worrying picture for the future of Coronation Street ( 
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But asides the number of exits, there’s so much still to come on the Cobbles with soap boss Kate Brooks recently telling The Mirror huge scenes planned for 2025 and beyond. Debbie’s own storyline, a dementia diagnosis, is set to run into 2026 at least, while there’s also new twists, new characters, returning faces and huge plots keeping the show very much alive.

A soap insider had told The Mirror that while there’s big changes on the way for the show, “Corrie is in no way on the brink of collapse” with some of their biggest plots still to come. They shared: “Corrie’s vision for the future on the show has secured its place on screens for years to come.

“Fans can ignore any idea that within a decade the soap will be gone, because it’s in no way on the brink of collapse. There’s some really exciting twists ahead for our favourite characters and couples, with a massive stunt that will no doubt bring the drama, as well as some hard-hitting storylines bringing some of soap’s biggest characters to the forefront.

“It really is a case of one door closes and another opens in that some familiar faces will be leaving, but others will be back – and the new faces could be just what the show needs. There’s so much ahead so the idea the end of Corrie is in sight is bonkers.”

Huge scenes are planned for 2025 and beyond ( 
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Mirror’s soap insider isn’t the only one sharing the truth about what’s really going on at Corrie, downplaying suggestion of a soap in crisis. A spokesperson for the show told The Mirror all about recent suggestions of falling ratings, hitting back at this with a very valid point.

After the focus appeared to be on an episode that aired on a Thursday night, not Corrie’s usual air date or even time slot, airing at the later time of 9PM, a spokesperson revealed Corrie’s ratings were much better than implied.

The Coronation Street spokesperson told The Mirror: “It is misleading to use figures that focus on an episode which aired on Thursday night at 9pm, a day and time which is not our usual transmission pattern. It also does not take into account the viewers who have watched or will watch the episode on ITVX.

“Monday night’s highly acclaimed knife crime episode peaked at 3.9 million viewers which, when consolidated, will be in keeping with the show’s 2024 average of 4.4 million, making it the most watched soap on TV.” That’s not all, as a Coronation Street insider also had their say on the recent exit announcements, sharing some intel that may make viewers rethink the stance that there’s a sudden mass exodus on the Cobbles.

This actually couldn’t be further from the truth, with many of the departures being planned months ago, if not a year ago. Despite fans fearing there will be constant exits in the coming days or weeks due to the regular reports of another person leaving, most of this is common knowledge with the cast already as it’s been set in stone for a while.

Fear not soap fans, as Corrie viewers old and new have absolutely nothingA Corrie insider told us: “These departure decisions have been made across the last 12 months not in the past few weeks, be they a choice by an actor or storyline related, which is not at all unusual. The soap does not announce them that far in advance as it undermines the storytelling if people know too soon that a character will be going.

“It is just the information has been leaked in quick succession which has led to a completely false narrative. The names that have been written about also include Sue Devaney for example, who will be on screen well past 2025. Luca Toolan knew of his character’s fate in February 2024. Others advised us as long ago as early 2024 of their decision to leave.”

The insider confirmed that the exits have long been planned and it was a deliberate decision not to announce them as to avoid ruining storylines and twists for fans. With them since reported elsewhere, they’ve clarified the exits are happening, but it’s not as dramatic as it’s been made out.

These aren’t sudden and abrupt decisions by cast or bosses for characters to go, with a bigger plan in motion and storylines planned for the months and years ahead. So fans need not worry about losing their favourite soap anytime soon, as Corrie for sure, exits or not, is here to stay.

Lorraine Kelly was left looking awkward as Paul Whitehouse and his wife had a tiff

Lorraine Kelly was caught in the middle of an on-air lovers’ quarrel as she had to step in and cool things off between Paul Whitehouse and his wife Mine during a slightly uncomfortable live exchange about an “announcement” they were supposed to make.

The celebrity couple were guests on the ITV show to chat about their latest venture, the podcast I’m ADHD – No You’re Not! when tension flared and the Scottish presenter was somewhat at a loss for words amidst the awkward spat.

Mine subtly elbowed her husband Paul, hinting that it was time to confirm their “announcement,” but he missed the cue completely. As frustration set in, Mine appeared irritated, and the couple started a heated dispute over who should speak up.

An exasperated Mine pressed: “You told me I wasn’t allowed to say anything,” trying to prod Paul into spilling the beans about their upcoming tour, yet he remained oblivious, reports the Daily Record.

Mine and Paul didn’t see eye-to-eye

Amidst the confusion, the comedian went so far as to laud his wife for receiving an MBE on King Charles’ New Years Honours list for her work in early childhood education and neuroscience’s role in understanding brain development.

“Oh the MBE…,” commented Paul, only to be quickly corrected again by Mine who interjected: “But it’s not my MBE,” as Lorraine chirped back with a smile: “It is your MBE,” and attempting to deter any further live bust ups. “No, but thank you I am very proud,” replied the podcast star.

Paul didn’t understand what the big “announcement” was all about
“What’s the announcement then,” asked Paul who was confused. “You said ‘don’t say anything, I’m going to say it’ and I said ‘alright you say it’,” retorted Mine.

Lorraine and Paul chimed in sync, adding: “What!” As Mine turned to her husband stating: Tell them about the…,” and leant in to whisper in his ear. “Oh blimey yeah we’re doing a couple of live shows,” blurted a bemused Paul.

Lorraine quickly simmered down the situation

The TV host to swiftly intervened with: “You’re both going on tour together, how wonderful.” In an attempt to diffuse the situation and steer the conversation in a more positive direction, the TV host inquired: “Is this your first tour Mine?”

Mine confirmed that this was indeed their first joint tour, but they were both thrilled to be collaborating. Earlier in the conversation, Lorraine touched on Paul’s involvement in the BBC Two series Gone Fishing, which he co-hosts with his close friend Bob Mortimer.

The former Harry Enfield star explained that their on-screen partnership extended far beyond just the sport of fishing. He saw it as an opportunity for old friends to bond over a shared hobby while also addressing Bob’s health struggles and raising awareness about his condition.

The idea for Gone Fishing was initially conceived by Paul in 2015 as a way to support Bob’s recovery from triple bypass surgery, which revealed that a staggering 95 percent of his arteries were blocked.

Bob has faced numerous health challenges, including a six-month battle with shingles that left him with muscle wastage and often reliant on a wheelchair.

Praising his on-screen companion, Bob told the Mirror that Paul had been instrumental in his recovery, stating: “I wasn’t very well and it made it a bit of a struggle but, as always, Paul looked after me and pulled me through.

“For half of the season, I couldn’t walk so it was very challenging at times. When we were in Trent, I was being taken from a wheelchair to the top of the bank. You never see that but you never see me on my feet either.”

Lorraine airs on ITV1, from 9am, weekdays.

Coleen Rooney was on This Morning to chat to hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard

Coleen Rooney graced the set of This Morning on Thursday, fresh from her I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here! success.

The 38-year-old, who is married to footballer Wayne Rooney, finished in second place in the recent 2024 series of the jungle series.

On her Thursday appearance on This Morning, host Ben Shephard was thrilled to offer an excited Coleen an impressive opportunity.

Ben, 50, said: “What we would love, because to organise four boys like you do and your husband as well, we could do with some of that advice on This Morning.”

“Would you do some films for us where you can show us as so many parents need tips and stuff about organising and doing stuff?”, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Coleen Rooney appeared on Thursday’s episode of This Morning following her success on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! ( 
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Coleen, 38, laughing off the compliment, humbly responded: “I’ve always been like that, I think it’s the mum in me, I like to make sure everything is prepped and prepared in time.”

Offering the opportunity again, Ben said: “We need some of that, will you do some of that for us on This Morning? We’d love that!”

To which a beaming Coleen appeared to agree to the opportunity while fellow presenter Cat Deeley added: “You make it look easy!”

The TV personality and WAG has recently proven herself to be a very organised mum as she revealed how she prepared for her I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here stint.

In a video shared on social media before she headed into the jungle for the ITV reality show last year, Coleen said she was feeling ‘really anxious about leaving the kids’, but had come to terms with it and had planned and prepared everything for the weeks ahead.

The 38-year-old, who is married to footballer Wayne Rooney, finished in second place in the recent 2024 series of the jungle series ( 
Image:
Coleen Rooney / Instagram)
Showing two giant white boards, Coleen said she’d planned everything from school timetables, to football and parties, so that her ‘army’ of friends and family helping out knew exactly what was happening when it came to her four boys – Kai, Kit, Klay and Cass, who she shares with football legend Wayne.

Earlier this month, Coleen shared another insight into her organised family life and revealed that in an attempt to try to control the ‘mayhem’ of mornings with four boys, she has created her very own car rota.

She said on the Stick to Football podcast: “It’s madness, it’s just mayhem all the time. We have to have a rota of who gets to sit at the front [of the car] going to school.”

But she admitted it’s not always successful. Coleen continued: “Even though there is a rota, there’s murder every morning. They just torment each other and it’s like a domino effect.”

This Morning continues on weekdays at 10am on both ITV and ITV X.

The Nolans singer Linda Nolan died aged 65 on Wednesday, with the entertainment world and loyal fans sharing touching tributes to the star

Coleen Nolan’s son, Jake Roche, shared a sweet tribute to his aunt Linda Nolan as he reacted to Blackpool Tower turning pink in her honour.

The Nolans singer died aged 65 on Wednesday, with the entertainment world and loyal fans sharing touching tributes to the star. Linda passed away with her famous sisters at her side and her final hours were said to have been full of “love and comfort”.

While the chart singer was born in Dublin, Ireland, she found fame along with her sisters when they formed their band, The Nolans, in Blackpool in 1974. Linda went on to settle in the English city – and it was here that she passed away. On Wednesday night, the Northern city paid tribute to the singer by turning the iconic Blackpool Tower pink in her honour. The 518ft structure was illuminated after sun down – with a pink heart added near the base.

Along with a picture of the illuminated tower, Jake posted on his Instagram Stories: “I will miss my aunty Linda greatly. She was THAT Auntie. The one that let you stay up late, would occasionally let you swear, and would sit and go through the whole Mickey monologue from Blood Brothers with me until I had it down. She had a remarkable life and I take comfort in the fact she lived it authentically. Thank you for all your kind words.”

Jake paid tribute to his aunt on social media

Jake reacted to the illumination ( 
Image:
Instagram)

Visit Blackpool highlighted the touching tribute, sharing a photo of the tower lit up via social media. An accompanying statement read: “Our thoughts are with the family, friends and fans of showbiz legend, Linda Nolan, who sadly passed away earlier today. This evening, The Blackpool Tower will be illuminated in pink as mark of respect. Rest in peace Linda, you will always be a shining star.”

Linda’s death was released to the Mirror in a statement from her agent, Dermot McNamara. He said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Linda Nolan, the celebrated Irish pop legend, television personality, Guinness World Record holding West End star, Sunday Times bestselling author and Daily Mirror columnist.

“She passed at around 10:20am at Blackpool Victoria Hospital on the MCEW Ward. The family said the hospital couldn’t do enough, they were tireless. She passed peacefully, with her loving siblings by her bedside, ensuring she was embraced with love and comfort during her final moments. Linda’s legacy extends beyond her incredible achievements in music and entertainment. She was a beacon of hope and resilience, sharing her journey to raise awareness and inspire others. Rest in peace, Linda. You will be deeply missed, but never forgotten.”

Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway has sent her support to Coleen Nolan after the tragic death of her sister, Linda Nolan, was announced on Wednesday

GMB’s Kate Garraway extended her heartfelt sympathies to Loose Women’s Coleen Nolan after the passing of her sister, Linda Nolan.

Linda, who shot to fame at just 15 as a member of the family ensemble The Nolans alongside Coleen and their other sisters Maureen, Bernie, Denise, and Anne, passed away at the age of 65. She was in a Blackpool hospital surrounded by her loved ones following a brave battle with breast cancer, having faced the disease twice.

During Thursday’s (January 16) episode of the popular ITV chat show, Kate and her co-star Ed Balls were joined by Linda’s close friend Vicki Michelle to honour the singer’s memory.

Vicki Michelle paid tribute to showbiz legend Linda Nolan, who passed away yesterday ( 
Image:
ITV)
Expressing solidarity with her ITV colleague, Kate said: “Linda was such a dear friend of the show and of course appearances on Loose Women. Coleen Nolan from Loose Women, we are thinking of you this morning.”

During the tribute, Vicki shared heartfelt sentiments about Linda. Kate began by reflecting: “I say it’s so sad because those that loved her and knew her are missing her but what is so inspirational about her is that she lived every second with such possibility and drive that you feel she made the most of her last days of life”, reports the Manchester Evening News.

Linda died on Wednesday aged 65 in hospital in Blackpool surrounded by family ( 
Image:
ITV)
Vicki added insight into Linda’s character, saying: “I think that is what Linda was about. She was so positive, caring and kind and she never gave into it and I think she inspired a lot of people not to. I think that’s why she survived so long, her positivity. I think it was the driving force that kept her with us.”

The EastEnders star was clearly emotional as she said: “It was such a shock because I never thought she would go. I thought she would get through this because it was 20 years ago when it was first there.

“She was always so positive and fun – when you saw her on TV she was always up and I think that it was so lovely about her.”

Tommy Nolan was instrumental to the success of his daughters’ singing group but behind closed doors, he was a ‘monster’ who caused lifelong harm to his children

The late Linda Nolan was part of the UK’s first ‘millionaire girl band’, which rode high with hits like I’m in the Mood for Dancing.

The singer, who died on Wednesday at the age of 65 following a long journey with secondary breast cancer, and her sisters achieved global fame in The Nolans. But behind the girl group’s rise to the top lay painful secrets, none more so than the horror that came at the hands of their father Tommy Nolan.

For Tommy had sexually abused his older daughter Anne, a fact she only revealed in 2008, ten years after he died. Growing up, the sisters’ father had regularly beaten up their mother, his wife Maureen, as well as turning his hand to his children. He had also been instrumental in their rise to fame.

Conflicted Linda said her father could be “fabulous” when he wasn’t drinking ( 
Image:
SSPL via Getty Images)
Maureen and Tommy, who first met at a gig in Dublin’s Clery’s Ballroom, were originally a duo before they moved to Blackpool and became keen to turn their young family into a musical troupe. As Bernie Nolan, who died from breast cancer in 2013, joked: “By the time Coleen and I came along, the question Mum and Dad would ask was not ‘Will it be a boy or a girl?’ but whether the baby could sing.”

Spotted performing in a hotel in the North West seaside town by a London exec, The Nolans never looked back. Chart hits included Gotta Pull Myself Together, Don’t Make Waves and Attention To Me, with their own BBC TV specials too.

But in her autobiography Anne’s Song, the oldest sibling opened up about her father’s sickening abuse. “At 11-years-old I trusted him,” she wrote. “Maybe this was something dads did with their daughters. My overwhelming reaction was one of puzzlement. I remember thinking to myself: ‘Why is Dad doing this?’.”

“My father may have invaded my body, but he also invaded my mind,” said Anne. “I’m now in my late 50s, and yet, to this day, no recollection of my childhood can ever be carefree. It has a contaminating effect that seeps into every corner of your mind, every facet of your life. It doesn’t go away, and the slate can never be wiped clean.”

Coleen said Tommy had “shortest fuse in the world” if alcohol had been consumed ( 
Image:
Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
Coleen, meanwhile, told of being beaten from a young age, saying her father could be a “monster” at times. “If he’d been sinking the pints he had the shortest fuse in the world and could become aggressive or violent in the blink of an eye,” the Loose Women star said on the show in 2009.

In her own memoir, Coleen recalled a brutal attack on her big sister Anne. “He was brutal, hitting her repeatedly in the face, spitting: ‘You will cry’,” she said. “But she jus sat there saying: ‘I won’t’, while he continued to hit her in the mouth.’

“He was a bully and a drunk,” added the star, the youngest of eight siblings. “I knew he’d made mum’s life hell and sexually abused Anne. His behaviour repulsed me… But I also loved him.”

For Linda, finding out about Tommy’s treatment of Anne left her similarly conflicted. “Part of me cried, I’m ashamed to say, because he didn’t do it to me and I didn’t think he loved me enough,” she said. “He was a Jekyll and Hyde, but when he wasn’t drinking he was fabulous and he stopped drinking for many years before he died.”

Tommy died of liver cancer in 1998, aged 78.

Prince Harry is set to receive ‘limited police protection’ during his UK visit next week. But as he’s no longer a working royal – should we really be footing the bill for his safety?

Prince Harry is set to get ‘limited police protection’ when he travels to the UK next week – despite losing his legal battle for taxpayer-funded security.

But should we really be footing the bill when he’s in the country, or should that be his responsibility now that he’s stepped away from royal duties?

Harry’s heading to London to attend his High Court trial against News Group Newspapers, and while here will have armed officers from the Metropolitan Police keeping an eye on him. This comes after the Duke lost a legal challenge last year to keep the same level of security he had as a working royal. Once he stepped back from royal duties and moved to the US, he no longer automatically got the same protection as the rest of the royal family.

But Met Commissioner Sir Mark Rowley has agreed to provide The Duke of Sussex with armed officers from the Royalty and Specialist Protection Command, a source said.

The insider said: “He is offering Harry limited police protection. The Met has been trying to recruit officers on their days off because they don’t have a lot of spare staff.” It is understood that Harry was offered a place to stay at Buckingham Palace but turned it down.

The controversy started after Harry challenged the decision to downgrade his security, claiming he was unfairly singled out. The High Court ruled last year that the decision made by the Executive Committee for the Protection of Royalty and Public Figures was reasonable, meaning his security now depends on a case-by-case evaluation, just like any other VIP visitor to the UK.

Harry was at the Coronation in 2023 with the usual security arrangements, and in June, the High Court gave him the green light to appeal that previous ruling on his protection level. But that doesn’t change the bigger question: should the taxpayer be funding this? Harry’s back in the UK for legal business, but his family, including Meghan and their children, will stay home in the US.

So, what do you think? Should we be footing the bill for Harry’s security as he was born a royal and is entitled to the protection, or should he be expected to cover the costs himself now that he’s no longer a working royal? Let us know your thoughts!

Prince William headed to The London and North Western branch of Wetherspoons in Birmingham New Street station this afternoon after joining a conference with paramedics in the city

Prince William became the Prince of Ales today as he popped into a local Wetherspoons with Aston Villa fans after joining paramedic heroes in Birmingham.

The future king visited first-responders as he was today unveiled as Patron of the College of Paramedics. He chatted with dozens of paramedic staff who had travelled across the country for the conference speaking about training, drones and hospital waiting times. After thanking the medics for their “best wishes” following the Princess of Wales yesterday revealing that she was in remission from cancer, Wills, 42, joked that he would pop into the popular pub chain nearby to see if there were any fellow Aston Villa fans.

Punters were then left agasp when the heir walked into the The London and North Western pub in Birmingham New Street station before saying hello and sitting at a table of locals. Wills had arranged a meet-up with the Villa regulars and he bought a round of beers for the eight Villa fans in the Wetherspoons pub.

Prince William in Wetherspoons today
The fans had been at the station ahead of catching a train up to Liverpool to watch their side take on Everton in the Premier League tonight. The future King, who sipped a pint of Bulmers cider, stayed for around half an hour before taking his train back to London. Mike Tindall famously once joked that he called William ‘One Pint Willy’.

Steve Jones, 56, a Villa fan for last 35 years, said: “We were contacted by the club saying Prince William wanted to meet a delegation of Villa fans as he was in Birmingham as he wanted to keep in the loop with everything going on at Villa. He was fantastic. I was quite amazed about how engaged he was with the club his interest. He’s not a fair weather fan. He really loves the club with a passion. We spoke about the club, the transfers, the pending Champions League trip to Monaco, and all things Aston Villa. He asked many questions he’s got a good level of interest.

“It was 95 per cent chat about Villa as that’s out shared interest but a bit about his family. Young George is a Villa fan but he didn’t want all three to be Villa fans. He was massively interested and seemed a really genuine guy and all he wanted to do is talk about Villa. He said he was hopeful about beating Everton tonight and would be watching but was wary about new manager syndrome, or rather old manager syndrome.”

Prince William chat to fans in the pub at Birmingham New Street Station ( 
Image:
PA)
Earlier this afternoon at the event in the Birmingham Conference and Events Centre, William, who formerly served as an air ambulance pilot in Anglesey, spoke to paramedics about the pressures of the job and how they are harnessing new technology.

When he arrived at the BCEC and greeted his hosts he said: “I’ll be watching the game and keeping an eye on what’s going on.” After meeting 999 heroes Wills joined a room packed full of paramedics for a series of presentations and talks. And he noticed an old pal who served as a search and rescue paramedic with him at RAF Valley in Anglesey when William was a search and rescue pilot. Patting Ed Griffiths on the shoulder, Wills joked : “Last time I saw you was on a beach.” Ed replied: “Yes in Newquay.”

During his talk, former colleague Ed spoke about Air Ambulance pilots saying it was an important job and made a quick joke at William’s expense. After asking “Do we have any pilots here?” He looked at William and said: “It’s not as difficult as some people make out.” But then added the prince was a “very safe pair of hands.”

The prince posed for pictures with the Villa fans at the pub in Birmingham New Street station ( 
Image:
Mirror)
Taking the stage after being announced in his new role, William said: “It’s great to be back in Birmingham, and for any fellow Villa fans with us today – I look forward to celebrating our win over Everton later! I am so pleased to be standing here as the College of Paramedics’ new Patron and to have the opportunity to join your first ever Emergency and Critical Care conference.

“Thank you to everyone who has made this event possible. Often referred to as the ‘Swiss Army Knife’ of frontline healthcare, paramedics and those in the emergency services are adaptable, multiskilled and crucially, know how to work under pressure. “This pressure is something I was all too familiar with during my time as a pilot for RAF Search and Rescue and for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

“My time in these roles allowed me to better understand the day-to-day challenges that you all face and gave me the lifelong motivation to do all I can to support your community. It is not just another job. “Every day provides unpredictable challenges. Every shout is a journey into the unknown. Every split second decision has an immeasurable impact on so many people.

Prince William during his first engagement of 2025 ( 
Image:
PA)Afterwards, Tracy Nicholls, Chief Executive Officer at the College of Paramedics, said to William: “I want to say how delighted we are to hear about the Royal Highness and send her our best wishes.” The prince nodded his head politely in acknowledgement.

It comes after his wife Kate yesterday revealed that her cancer was in remission. Speaking to a new recruit who had spent less than a year as a paramedic, William said: “It’s an exciting journey you are on.” Claire Fitchett, Specialist Paramedic at Hampshire and Isle of Wight, told the prince “being a paramedic can be a lonely place to work” and said it was good that so many paramedics were together at the conference. She also told William that paramedics were harnessing new technology.

She told him they are investigating using drones to fly automated external defibrillators (AEDs) from the mainland to Isle of Wight by drones. Wills added: “We still need people on the ground so still be in a job for a while.” The College of Paramedics was established in 2001 and is a membership organisation open to all UK paramedics registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and student paramedics.

It has more than 20,000 members improving professional standards, learning and development, and taking care of paramedics’ mental health and wellbeing. In February last year, the College was granted the Royal Charter of Incorporation by the King.