‘Coronation Street’ star Ryan Thomas has confirmed he is to leave the ITV soap.
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The 31-year-old actor, who has played builder Jason Grimshaw for the last 15 years, says it’s time to ‘spread his wings and pursue new challenges’ and has set his sights on Hollywood.
Ryan Thomas
“It has been a great privilege to be in Coronation Street – the cast and crew are among the best in the business,” Ryan said. “To be a part of it for so long has been an amazing experience.
“The decision to leave was extremely difficult. I’m just excited now to see what exit storyline the writers give Jason.”
‘Corrie’ producer Stuart Blackburn confirmed Ryan’s final scenes will air next summer.
He added: “Ryan has been an important part of Coronation Street for 15 years.
“We wish him every success when he moves on next year and we appreciate his desire to try new things.
“In the coming months he’ll be at the heart of a massive story, affecting not just his family but the Websters and the Windasses too which will take us well into 2016.”
Ryan has been with the soap since 2000
Ryan hinted he was ready to move on from the cobbles at last week’s Pride of Britain Awards.
“Going to Hollywood is a dream so I’m going to see what happens,” he said.
“We can always dream. I’ve been on the show for 15 years now, I always pinch myself, I’m blessed.”
Ryan's exit from the Street follows that of his co-star Sean Ward, who saw his character Callum Logan murdered by Kylie Platt during the soap's live episode last month.
The death happened within the first 15 minutes of the show, and came as a huge shock to viewers.