Coronation Street's Lisa George, famed for her portrayal of Beth Tinker, has bid farewell to an ITV co-star. In a poignant episode on Wednesday night, avid watchers of the ITV soap were reduced to tears as Craig Tinker, whom Colson Smith has brought to life for the past 14 years, left the show. Craig's heartbreaking departure came in the wake of being inadvertently embroiled in Mick Michaelis' vindictive crusade against Kit Green earlier this week, which tragically led to Craig's demise. The horrific chain of events kicked off when Craig intercepted Mick for speeding and driving under the influence, only to be brutally attacked with a cricket bat by the irate assailant. Tragically, Craig succumbed to his injuries in hospital, the violent encounter proving fatal, leaving Weatherfield's residents plunged into deep mourning, as reported by Leicestershire Live. This potent storyline marks the conclusion of a significant chapter in Coronation Street's history with Craig having been an adored figure since 2011. In light of the distressing episodes, actress Lisa, who assumes the role of Craig's mum Beth, shared a heartfelt message on Instagram reflecting on the character's departure from the soap. Lisa, 52, posted an array of photographs featuring her and Craig over the years with the touching caption: "Our Craigy... the best mother and son duo for 13 years. "Well done with all you’ve achieved @colsonjsmith!! A new chapter begins, wishing you all the luck in the world! It was a pleasure working with you for all that time and I can’t wait to see what you do next #corrie #coronationstreet #motherandson #craig #beth #actorslife #workworkwork #itv." Colson responded with a touching message, saying: "Thank you Lisa! His mum would have kept him safe! Xx." This exchange has sparked speculation among fans about a possible return to the show for Lisa's character, Beth, who left the programme last year after a 13-year run. Viewers have taken to social media to express their hopes for Beth's return, with one fan asking: "Gonna miss our Craig, hope this means you're back for a while to say goodbye?" Another fan commented: "Aww hope you're back soon, would make sense as a mother". Some fans have even speculated about a potential return for Beth for Craig's funeral, with one pleading: "please come back for his funeral" and another saying: "hope you'll be back for his funeral." Colson announced his departure from the show earlier this year, revealing that he was told Craig's time on the show would come to an end in 2025. He has expressed his gratitude for his time on the programme, praising the experience and life skills he has gained. Colson, in his announcement, expressed his excitement for the future: "For Me, this is just the end of the beginning. I genuinely can't wait to see what chapter 2 has in store for me. LONG LIVE THE COBBLES!". Coronation Street continues on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV and ITV X. Episodes are also available to watch from 7am each weekday on ITV X.