One year on from Craig Tinker’s tragic death in Coronation Street, here’s what Colson Smith is up to now
It's been a whole year since Craigy died
It’s been a whole year since poor PC Craig Tinker was killed off by nasty Mick Michaelis in Coronation Street.
Viewers will remember that Craig died in the hospital from brain swelling after being hit over the head with a baseball bat by Mick Michaelis.
But, while this was the end of an era for Craigy, it was the start of a very exciting one for actor Colson Smith.
PC Craig Tinker’s death in Coronation Street
In May 2025, PC Craig Tinker’s time in Weatherfield sadly came to an end after devastating brain swelling caused him to flatline in hospital.
It all began after Craig pulled Mick Michaelis over for drink driving – a routine stop that quickly spiralled out of control.
Already furious after discovering Kit could be Brody’s dad, Mick took his anger out on Craig. The situation turned violent when Mick grabbed a baseball bat. He then struck Craig over the head, leaving him unconscious on the ground.
Maria Connor later found Craig seriously injured with a severe head wound. She immediately called for an ambulance in a desperate attempt to save him.
Craig was rushed to hospital, where Kirk Sutherland, Maria, Asha and colleague Jess kept vigil – but heartbreakingly, he later passed away.
That evening, Weatherfield came together to honour Craig’s memory following an off-screen funeral, as friends, family and colleagues said their goodbyes.
The emotional tribute marked the end of Craig’s journey on the cobbles. Lisa Swain then delivered a heartfelt speech in honour of the much-loved PC.
Colson Smith’s life after Coronation Street
After his Coronation Street exit, Colson Smith continued to present the On the Sofa podcast with Corrie co-stars Ben Price and Jack P Shepherd.
And, it seems like presenting is something that Colson loves as he’s also been appearing in This Morning segments.
Last summer, Colson also hosted a summer show on BBC Radio Leeds, going on to present for BBC Sport.
Speaking to Coronation Street Insider and other media last year, Colson said: “I’ve always enjoyed working. I make no secret that I want to be a presenter. That’s where my love and passion lies at the moment.
As well as entering the presenting world, Colson has also been running Castleford Cricket Club at Savile Park, running marathons, and even decided to go Instagram official with his make-up artist partner Taylor Gunn late last year.
It seems that Colson is truly living his best life right now!
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