Coronation Street Kills Off Jim McDonald in March

Coronation Street is set to kill off one of its longest-running characters next month, with news of Jim McDonald's offscreen death reaching the fictional streets of Weatherfield and prompting an emotional storyline for his son Steve.

The ITV soap, which debuted in 1960, will air scenes in March where Steve McDonald, played by Simon Gregson, learns that his estranged father is seriously ill and receives an invitation to visit him in an effort to mend their fractured relationship. Jim, portrayed by Charlie Lawson from 1989 until his last appearance in 2018, will pass away before the reunion can occur, leaving Steve to grapple with regret and unresolved tensions. Producers confirmed the development through storyline details, marking the end of a character who first appeared 35 years ago.

Lawson, who was informed of the decision in September, addressed the news on social media, stating he had respected the show's confidentiality and that the outcome was not a surprise. In responses to fans, he expressed no hard feelings toward the production but alluded to external factors, including politics, influencing the choice. The actor, now a regular contributor on GB News, has been vocal...