fans are piecing together their theories on Eileen Grimshaw’s exit strategy after announced her decision to bid farewell to Weatherfield.
The actress, a staple on the series for 25 years as the forthright Eileen Grimshaw, divulged her plans to part ways with the iconic ITV soap this week.
Sue Cleaver has become synonymous with some of the most intense storylines in history, from being wed to notorious villain Pat Phelan (portrayed by Connor McIntyre) to her infamous rivalry with Gail Platt (played by Helen Worth).
Yet, the news has broken that Cleaver is gearing up to say goodbye to the show. While viewers will still catch glimpses of Eileen into the late spring, producers have assured them that they havent seen the last of herEileen’s fate doesnt include death, hence she could very well return to stir the pot in future episodes.
Devastated by Sues impending departure, fans have taken to social media to express their sorrow and speculate over Eileens next move. A dedicated Facebook fan group saw one devotee lamenting, “She’s more just of a background character now, Eileen’s not had a storyline in years. Still gutted though.”
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Sue has confirmed her exit from the soap (Image: ITV)
Another speculated on what might unfold in her final scenes: “I think she will split up with George and go live with Jason in Thailand.”, reports .
Another person concurred with the sentiments: “I’ve been thinking for a while that they will split up.” While a third shared excitement but also concern: “Same but I hope George doesn’t leave as well!”
Devotees of the soap opera are no strangers to the storyline involving Eileen and her current beau George Shuttleworth, portrayed by actor Tony Maudsley. Additionally, they haven’t forgotten Eileen’s son Jason (played by Ryan Thomas), whose last appearance on the show dates back to 2016 when he departed after a 16-year tenure to start afresh in distant lands.
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Fans have ‘worked out’ her exit storyline (Image: ITV)
In explaining her recent farewell to the beloved series, Sue Cleaver conveyed to The Sun on Sunday her deep appreciation for her time on : “I’ve had 25 privileged years of working on .”
She elaborated on the life-altering decision stating, “The door is still firmly open but as I reached my 60th year, I decided it was time to embrace change, look for new adventures and live fearlessly.”
A source close to the star also confided in the publication that while Sue has deeply valued her long-standing role on the show, she now aspires to explore new horizons away from the cobbles.
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