Colson Smith, who is set to leave Coronation Street, has opened up about his bittersweet departure from the show after 14 years on the soap.
The Craig Tinker actor, whose final scenes are scheduled to air in May, reminisced about his tenure on the iconic show with co-stars Ben Price and Jack P Shepherd on their podcast On The Sofa.
Affectionately describing his time on the iconic soap, he said: "Corrie has been perfect, it has been the perfect first chapter. And the way it ended, the storyline, when you get to see it in May."
Continuing to reflect on his 'perfect' farewell, Colson shared: "Friday, and saying goodbye, and then Friday night, and just celebrating everything that I've achieved in that 14 years."
Meanwhile, Ben Price shared how the daily camaraderie on a soap set fosters strong bonds among cast members, unlike the more fragmented filming schedules of movies and TV shows.
Colson acknowledged the unique experience of working on a soap set, admitting that he's unlikely to form such strong connections again: "And I know that I won't, and I'm very very aware of that, that nothing will ever (come close), Corrie is irreplaceable for me."
He emphasized the special place the show holds in his heart, saying: "Nothing will come close to the way that I feel when I'm in that building, or the way I felt, sorry, when I'm in that building."
As he prepares to bid farewell to the show, Colson recently hosted his leaving party in Manchester, celebrating an impressive 14 years on Coronation Street.
Ben Price took the stage to deliver a heartfelt tribute to the departing actor, in front of a watchful audience of cast and crew members.
Colson confessed that his co-star's poignant words had him welling up: "I don't think I cried on my speech and then f****ng hell, he (Ben Price) opened his mouth...."
Throughout his 14-year tenure as Craig Tinker, Colson has found himself at the centre of numerous unforgettable Coronation Street storylines.
One particularly notable portrayal was Craig's battle with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), a challenging storyline that allowed Colson to showcase his acting range.
Coronation Street returns on Monday (April 7) at 8 pm.
English (United States) ·