Who Is Leaving Coronation Street in 2026? Major Cast Departures Confirmed
Major Cast Changes Hit Weatherfield
Coronation Street faces significant cast changes in 2026, with several beloved characters preparing to bid farewell to the cobbles. One of the biggest exits confirmed is Billy Mayhew, as Daniel Brocklebank will leave the soap in 2026 after playing the vicar for 11 years. His final scenes will air in 2026.
Billy Mayhew’s Emotional Departure
Billy’s exit will follow the devastating loss of his husband, Paul Foreman, with the storyline set to take a dark turn as grief and anger start to consume him. The character dealt with the heartbreaking death of his husband, Paul Foreman, played by Peter Ash, who succumbed to motor neurone disease (MND). Producer Kate Brooks confirmed Billy will be at the centre of a major storyline before he leaves and he will be missed by the cast.
Debbie Webster’s Heartbreaking Storyline
Another emotional exit is already mapped out for Debbie Webster, as Sue Devaney’s character is being written out through a long-running young-onset dementia storyline, which will continue until 2027. This storyline represents one of the soap’s most challenging narratives, addressing a difficult health condition with sensitivity and depth.
Dee-Dee Bailey’s Singapore Move
Dee-Dee Bailey has already departed the cobbles in late 2025. Coronation Street aired the final scenes for Channique Sterling-Brown, as her character Dee-Dee Bailey departed the Cobbles for pastures new, taking a job in Singapore. Though her exit was shown before 2026, the impact continues to resonate with fans and remaining characters.
Budget Cuts and Future Uncertainty
Reports in July 2025 claimed ITV is planning further budget cuts across Coronation Street and Emmerdale, with suggestions that as many as one in ten cast members could be affected. More exits could still be on the way as 2026 approaches. This financial pressure has created uncertainty amongst the cast and crew about who might be next to leave.
What These Departures Mean for Fans
These exits represent a significant shift in Coronation Street’s landscape, with long-serving characters departing and new storylines emerging. While departures are always difficult for loyal viewers, they create opportunities for fresh narratives and new character development. The soap continues to balance honoring its history whilst evolving to meet contemporary audience expectations, ensuring Weatherfield remains a compelling destination for viewers nationwide.