Stu Carpenter bids an emotional farewell to Weatherfield as actor Bill Fellows exits Corrie after three years on the cobbles

Coronation Street airs on ITV at 8pm on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

In a dramatic episode airing tonight, Stu Carpenter, played by Bill Fellows, makes the heartbreaking decision to leave Weatherfield for good. After realising his attempts to mentor troubled teen Mason have put Yasmeen and her business in jeopardy, Stu decides it’s time to move on. Telling Yasmeen he’s heading to Germany to live with his granddaughter, fans will see an emotional goodbye as Stu bids farewell to the street.

Speaking about his exit, Bill, 67, reflected on his three-year stint in the iconic role, explaining how he’s proud of how Stu’s journey unfolded. “He’s come so far,” Bill said. “He was a homeless man wrongly accused of murder, but over time, he cleared his name, rebuilt his life, and became part of the community. But it’s taken a toll, especially on his family.”

Bill revealed how his original six-month contract quickly evolved into a three-year stay. “I was a little panicked at first, thinking about committing for so long,” he confessed. “But it flew by, and I loved every minute of it. I’ve worked with some amazing people, including William Roache, and it feels like I’ve been part of Corrie history.”

Reflecting on Stu’s departure, Bill shared his thoughts on the character’s relationship with Mason. “It’s been great revisiting Stu’s past, as he’s always been someone who believes in second chances. But this time, his actions put Yasmeen in danger, and it’s clear their relationship couldn’t survive it. It’s a sad decision for Stu, but the right one.”

Though Stu is leaving Weatherfield, the door remains open for a possible return. “I was fine with whatever they chose, even if it meant killing him off,” Bill revealed. “But knowing Stu’s out there helping people somewhere is a nice thought.”

As for what’s next, Bill has plenty lined up, including a new BBC sitcom and an exciting film project. But before he left the cobbles, he made sure to take one memorable keepsake: “I’m taking Stu’s hat. It’s been with me from the beginning, and it symbolises the character perfectly.”