ITV Share By Tamzin Meyer 3 Feb 2026, 16:02 By Tamzin Meyer 3 Feb 2026, 16:02 Coronation Street set to quietly end Jim McDonald’s story with 'off-screen death' The end of an era Share By Tamzin Meyer 3 Feb 2026, 16:02 By Tamzin Meyer 3 Feb 2026, 16:02 Coronation Street looks set to say a final goodbye to one of its most infamous residents, with reports claiming Jim McDonald will be killed off off-screen next month. Jim McDonald has been part of Corrie folklore for decades, first striding onto the cobbles back in 1989. But it now seems the soap is closing the door on any future comeback for the character, bringing his story to an end in a quietly devastating twist. Jim is being bumped off (Credit: ITV) Coronation Street to ‘kill off’ classic character Jim McDonald According to RadioTimes, Steve McDonald will be dealt the heartbreaking news of his dad’s death during scenes airing next month. The revelation is expected to launch a fresh storyline, with Steve firmly at the centre as he then tries to process what it all means. Jim hasn’t been seen on screen since 2018, and he left Weatherfield on far from good terms, particularly where Steve was concerned. Their relationship was strained long before Jim disappeared, leaving plenty of unresolved feelings behind. Steve will reportedly be left conflicted after receiving the phone call, unsure whether to grieve the loss of his father or feel relief after years of disappointment and pain. A source told the publication that ‘Jim’s death will rock the boat for hapless Steve.’ Article Continues Below Read all the latest Spoilers Actor Charlie Lawson, who played Jim for many years, is also said to be aware of the soap’s plans for his character. Jim was quite the villain (Credit: ITV) Jim McDonald’s legacy on Coronation Street Over his 35 years connected to the show, Jim McDonald was at the heart of some truly unforgettable storylines. His turbulent marriage to Liz McDonald remains a standout for long-time fans. Never exactly a model citizen, Jim spent plenty of time behind bars, most notably for the manslaughter of Jez Quigley. He later then found himself locked up again after an armed robbery at a building society. This cemented his reputation as one of Weatherfield’s most notorious villains. His final stint on the show in 2018 saw Jim burn every remaining bridge. In a cruel twist, he scammed his ex-wife Liz out of a large sum of money. How? By pretending his girlfriend Hannah was their late daughter Katie, a betrayal that proved impossible to forgive. Given that history, it’s hardly surprising that Jim’s reported death leaves Steve facing some very complicated emotions. With old wounds reopened, it sounds like the Street could be in for a turbulent time ahead. Read more: Coronation Street fan theory predicts Todd will murder Theo – and George will help him dispose of body Share Good to Know Share By Tamzin Meyer 3 Feb 2026, 16:02 By Tamzin Meyer 3 Feb 2026, 16:02 Next Story
