Coronation Street's Beth Tinker Bids Farewell After 13 Years
Coronation Street favourite Lisa George has confirmed she is leaving the ITV soap after 13 years, with her final scenes set to air this week.
The actress, who has played the lovable Beth Tinker since 2011, revealed her departure on Wednesday's This Morning, confirming Friday as her last day on the cobbles. George, 51, explained that she's embarking on new ventures, including rehearsals for an upcoming pantomime production later this autumn.
"It's just strange," George admitted to presenters Craig Doyle and Sian Welby. "I don't think it's sunk in yet. I don't think it will until I'm not on screen anymore. Friday will be my last scenes, and I think it will start to sink in then."
Reflecting on her time on the long-running show, George described the experience as "incredible" and said the years had "flown by". She attributed this to the unique world of Weatherfield, where she felt "in a different bubble".
George went on to express her surprise at how the role had changed her life, particularly the newfound attention she receives in public. "I still walk around not realising people recognise me," she said, recounting a recent encounter at Starbucks.
Beth first arrived in Weatherfield with her son Craig, played by Colson Smith. Looking back on her debut, George remarked on how much Smith has changed since his early days on the soap. "Oh look at Colson," she exclaimed. "He hasn't spoken much in the first few years, and now look at him!"
George's next role will see her take on the beloved character of the Fairy Godmother in the Cinderella pantomime at Swindon's Wyvern Theatre this Christmas. "It's a bit scary," she acknowledged, "but I can't wait to do it again."
Beth Tinker's journey on Coronation Street has seen her evolve from a love interest for Steve McDonald to a long-term partner with Kirk Sutherland. Her family, including son Craig, who recently became a police officer, and niece Sinead, who sadly passed away from cancer, have become integral parts of the Weatherfield community.
In recent months, George has showcased a remarkable transformation, revealing a dramatic weight loss on social media. She has attributed this change to the menopause and has expressed her joy at embracing her new figure.
While Beth Tinker's time on the cobbles is coming to an end, Lisa George's career is sure to continue flourishing. Fans will miss her on-screen presence but can look forward to seeing her back on stage this Christmas.
