Former Coronation Street stars now - tragic deaths to shameful axing

Coronation Street has long become a beloved staple in millions of homes across the UK for 64 years.

Since its debut in December 1960, there has been a mammoth 57 births, 146 deaths and 131 weddings, and alongside its gripping storylines, the TV soap has also seen a revolving door of cast.

With more than 10,000 episodes, fans have had to say goodbye to many characters while actors such as Bill Roache haven’t left since arriving at the cobbles during the first episode.

However, along with its often dramatic storylines, many Corrie stars have quit the drama to change careers, there have also been firings, while tragedy has struck for others.

Here’s a look back at some of the most iconic characters and where they are now since leaving Weatherfield.

John Savident as Fred Elliott

Fred was a renowned Butcher on Corrie, known for his bellowing voice and catchphrase: “I say, I say.”

After landing the role in 1994, actor John Savident left the soap in 2006 for “personal reasons,” while his character died from a stroke.

Upon his departure, John starred in pantomimes, the 2012 Chrismas Special for Holby City and lent his voice to Doctor Who for Order of the Daleks.

In February, the actor's agent confirmed he had died aged 86, stating: “We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21 February, he was a much-loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

Steve Arnold as Ashley Peacock 

Steve Arnold’s character Ashley made his tragic exit from Coronation Street during the show’s 50th anniversary episode, 15 years after making his debut.

Following his exit, the actor has enjoyed different TV roles and has also worked as a producer.

After turning his back on TV, Steve found his passion after working “40-odd stage jobs”.

He explained: “I had never been on stage until I left Coronation Street and it’s been brilliant going to do all these different things, and play different characters in different plays, and do something fresh every two or three months.

“It’s every actor’s dream and long may it continue.”

Bruno Langley as Todd Grimshaw 

After 17 years on the soap, Bruno’s TV career came to a shocking end after he was booted off from the show after he was convicted of sexually assaulting two women.

The disgraced actor admitted he had a problem with alcohol and on occasions could not remember the morning after his drinking binges in Manchester Magistrates' Court in December 2017.

Although he avoided prison, Bruno was handed a 12-month “high-level” community order, slapped with an electronic tag, and told he must sign the sex offenders' register for five years and pay £250 in compensation to each victim.

His Corrie contract ended before the trial in October 2017 and he did not get to film an exit.

At the time, a spokesperson for the show said: “Bruno Langley is no longer contracted to Coronation Street.”

Craig Charles as Lloyd Mullaney 

Craig shot to fame as the cab driver Lloyd who was best mates with Steve McDonald, despite the unforgettable romance with his mum Liz.

However, 10 years into his role Craig left to star in the BBC sitcom Red Dwarf as Dave Lister.

Craig also dabbled in reality TV including a stint in 2014’s I’m A Celebrity, but was forced to depart four days in after being told his brother Dean had died.

As well as being onscreen, the actor is also a DJ and hosts The Craig Charles Funk and Soul Show and Craig Charles At Teatime on BBC Radio 6.