Corrie star Shayne Ward is reportedly leaving the soap, in what fans are promised will be an “explosive, dramatic” storyline.
The actor, who plays former factory boss Aidan Connor, has been on the Street for two and a half years.
He’s already seen his fair share of action and drama, with storylines including his ill-fated wedding to Eva (Catherine Tyldesley) and affair with Maria (Samia Longchambon).
But Shayne is set to leave the show next May, and the Corrie cast and crew have been sworn to secrecy about his exit.
A source told The Sun: “Nobody will see this coming. Viewers are going to be absolutely stunned.
“It’s going to be a blow for the fans — but also a massive TV moment.”
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Former X Factor winner Shayne joined the show in August 2015, coming to the rescue of cousin Carla Connor (Alison King) who was about to lose the factory, Underworld.
Mirroring that storyline, he is about to invite Carla to return to Weatherfield to bail him and dad Johnny out of their current mess and help them keep the factory.
Aidan has had plenty of romances during his time on the Corrie cobbles, and has picked up a whole new fanbase.
As one of the show’s most popular characters, Shayne has won awards for his role, including Best Newcomer at the National Television Awards in 2016.
“Everybody wants Shayne leaving to be a huge part of the show next year,” the insider added.
Bosses are said to be working on an “explosive and dramatic” exit for the character to air in the spring.
There has been no official comment from a Coronation Street spokesperson, as they do not comment on actors’ contracts and departures.
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But an insider told Metro.co.uk: “Shayne is an incredibly popular member of the cast and his exit in Spring will bring high drama.
“There is still a long way to go for Aidan from now as the character will remain on screen for another six months.
“But bosses have lined up a big leaving storyline.”