Coronation Street Icon Sue Cleaver Exits After 25 Years With Surprise Twist

Sue Cleaver is set to leave Coronation Street after 25 years, with her character Eileen Grimshaw receiving a rare happy ending. Cleaver, who had been contemplating her departure for four years, personally requested the return of former cast member Ryan Thomas, who plays her on-screen son Jason Grimshaw, to help with Eileen's exit storyline. Despite the character being wrongfully implicated in her half-sister Julie Carp's death, Eileen will not face prison but will instead leave Weatherfield for a fresh start with Jason. The show's producers supported Cleaver's wish for a positive departure, valuing Eileen as a significant part of the series. This storyline mirrors Cleaver's own outlook on life, emphasizing new adventures and challenges regardless of age. Ryan Thomas returned to the show for a limited stint to film the exit scenes, marking a full-circle moment for the actress and her character.