Coronation Street has been a landmark of British television for decades. Since the first episode aired in 1960, several actors have become fan favourites, and millions of watchers have gathered to follow their adventures. However, fans will soon have to say goodbye to one of the series' most beloved characters, Eileen Grimshaw, played by Sue Cleaver for the past 25 years. Why has the actress decided to leave the soap? Find out everything you need to know below.
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Sue Cleaver is leaving Coronation Street after 25 years
In January 2025, Sue Cleaver announced she would be leaving Coronation Street after 25 years. The actress, who plays Eileen Grimshaw, explained she is ready for a new chapter in her life, but the door 'is still firmly open' for her to eventually return to the show occasionally. On Thursday 13 March 2025, she was a guest on This Morning. During her interview, the actress explained why she decided it was time for her to have 'new adventures'.
Sue Cleaver wants to lead the way for other older women to remain crucial to society, as they still have got so much to give. She said:
I'm leaving now - I'm 61 and this is what my new book is all about. I think we get to an age where society wants us just to shuffle off quietly and I really want to encourage other women that we have so much more to give.
Sue Cleaver also revealed her struggles with anxiety and 'negative' thoughts were part of the reason why she needed to leaveCoronation Street. She explained:
I hope to help people realise that you don't have to listen to those thoughts, they're just background noise.
We get wrapped up with the thoughts, the problems, the what ifs. Anxiety, which is a bit one of mine, is always future based. It's always about 'could this happen?' It's our imaginings and as we know, that's not real.
Ryan Thomas is set to return to the soap for her final farewell
Ryan Thomas, who played Sue Cleaver's son on the show, recently revealed he will return to Corrie for her final send-off. The actor, now 40, left the soap ten years ago, after 16 years. The host of ITV's 99 to Beat explained Sue Cleaver had asked him if he would like to return for her final farewell. He told the Mirror:
I got the call from Sue saying would I come back for her exit storyline - that’s where my career started and I wouldn’t be where I am now if it wasn’t for Coronation Street. That place will always have my respect and I’m very loyal to where I came from. They taught me everything I know, so I’m excited.
The news quickly spread among fans, who were immediately excited to see him back on our screens. However, Ryan Thomas issued a warning, saying his return would be brief. He said:
It’s not for very long. I’m going to hopefully step onto the cobbles for five minutes.
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Sources used:
Mirror: Coronation Street's Sue Cleaver shares real reason for exit after hidden struggle
Mirror: Coronation Street's Ryan Thomas confirms return after 10 years - but issues warning to fans
