Coronation Street legend shares true feelings on being axed after 27 years on ITV soap

One former Coronation Street star has opened up on how they feel about having to wave goodbye to the ITV cobbles for good, after 27 years, as their character was killed off. Todd Boyce took on the notorious role of businessman-turned-serial killer Stephen Reid, as the actor said that the character became "irredeemable."

Reid first featured in the ITV staple back in 1996 and has returned at various points but became a series regular again back in 2022. He has featured in almost 300 episodes before being killed off in 2023. However, he made sure his last hours in Weatherfield were memorable by attacking his niece, Sarah Barlow, and partner, Jenny Connor, before being mowed down by Peter Barlow. Depsite his death being played out in dramatic scenes, Todd admitted that viewers at home weren't convinced that it was really the end. He exclusively told Express.co.uk: "There was the tiniest bit of what looked like a faint smile when they were zipping up the body, and it left fans questioning, 'Is he really dead?' But yeah, he's really dead!

"I guess he could come back as his long-lost twin brother, with a different accent, maybe. That would be fun, but yeah he's definitely dead."

When asked how he feels about the door being closed on returning to Coronation Street after so long, Todd replied: "It was such a great arc and it was played out over 27 years, it's just wrapped it up in a bow for me to have played a villain. To draw a line under it is good too, instead of it hovering above my head and me wondering if I'm ever going to be called back.

"A lot of people leave in a taxi and I left sort of under a taxi, so yeah I was really happy with it. It was a lovely package that was fully formed and complete so it makes me happy when I think about it."

The actor was asked if Stephen faced a fair comeuppance, with his end being in a body bag rather than a jail cell. He replied: "I think he was getting a taste for these murders towards the end of it. He was getting fairly ruthless and he was just so far in to it that I think he became irredeemable in the end.

"So I think he probably got what he deserved, and I think the audience were really ready for him to be brought to justice, so I think it worked out best for everyone."

The soap star has recently turned from the TV to the stage as he is set to perform in the world premiere of Possum Trotin in London this November as a kind-hearted widower, known as Duane - a role that is miles away from the murderous monster he is best known for.

Set in Possum Trot, Nebraska, the frantic and hilarious play follows Maxine, a resilient diner owner on a one-woman mission to preserve the spirit of her town while wrangling with her chaotic family. Written by the award-winning playwright Kathy Rucker, Possum Trot showcases the universal insight that even in the toughest circumstances, humour and community can overcome adversity.

The show is due to run from November 12 to November 29, 2025 at the Theatre At The Tabard in London. Tickets are available by clicking here and are priced from £23.50.