Coronation Street fans have been left reeling after news emerged that long-standing character Les Battersby is set to be killed off after 27 years.
The shocking revelation came to light when former co-star Vicky Entwistle, who played Les’s on-screen wife, Janice, confirmed the news on social media.
Entwistle responded to a fan’s tweet about Les’s demise, stating: “I know Bruce told me a couple of months ago after receiving an email.”
The decision to axe the character, portrayed by Bruce Jones for a decade, has been described as “a huge snub” by insiders.
According to reports, the storyline will unfold with Les’s on-screen daughter Leanne (played by Jane Danson), receiving a devastating phone call informing her of her father’s death.
She will then break the news to her sister Toyah, who is portrayed by Georgia Taylor.
Les Battersby has been an iconic character since 1997
ITV
An insider told The Sun: “It’s a huge snub to kill off a popular character like this. Bruce created one of the Street’s most iconic characters in Les and always hoped one day he might return.”
The source added: “A lot of the cast and crew have said it’s a bit mean. It’s also bound to infuriate long-term fans who remember Les with great fondness.”
Bruce Jones portrayed Les Battersby on Coronation Street from 1997 to 2007.
The character was known for his chaotic lifestyle and tumultuous relationships, including his marriage to Janice and later romance with Cilla Brown.
Les Battersby lived with his wife Janice and daughters Leanne and Toyah
ITV
Jones left the soap in 2007 amid controversy, with reports suggesting his departure was due to allegations of getting intoxicated with an undercover journalist and revealing future plotlines.
After leaving Coronation Street, Jones pursued stand-up comedy in Benidorm and appeared on reality TV shows.
Les’s character was said to be living in Dublin, working as a roadie for an Irish tribute band.
The decision to kill off Les Battersby is expected to have a significant impact on long-time Coronation Street viewers, with many fans having expressed their shock and disappointment on social media platforms.
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The star confirmed the news of his axing whilst responding to a fans tweets
ITV
Les Battersby’s absence from the show since 2007 has left some viewers hoping for a potential return.
It remains to be seen how this development will affect the show’s viewership and the ongoing storylines of Les’s on-screen family members.