Bill Ward quits 'Coronation Street'

ITV today confirmed that Bill Ward has decided to leave Coronation Street at the end of his current contract in 2007.

Bill, who plays bully boy builder Charlie Stubbs, told producers of his decision, despite only being a few months into his current contract, in order to give them time to develop an exit story for the character.

The show’s story team are now working on what promises to be one of the most explosive exit storylines in the show’s 46-year history. Viewers will see Charlie leave Weatherfield in January next year.

Of his choice to leave, Ward said: “It’s been a very difficult decision to make and one which I have been thinking about since the end of my last contract. I have had the most fantastic three-and-a-half years on the Street. Charlie has been the most fantastic character to play, and I’d really like to thank all the writers, storyliners and producers for giving him and me such great stories. I just felt that I’d done with Charlie everything I possibly could, and that it was probably time to move on.

“I have nothing but the highest admiration for the show and everyone connected with it and am sure it will continue to go from strength to strength. I’ll particularly miss all the cast and crew and would like to wish everyone all the very best for future.”

Coronation Street producer Steve Frost said: “Bill Ward is an asset to the show and we would have been developing further storylines for the character of Charlie Stubbs had he not decided to leave. He will be missed.”

An ITV spokesperson commented: “Contrary to press reports Bill’s decision to leave is not linked to the future of the character of Tracy Barlow. Actress Kate Ford is contracted to Coronation Street until March 2007.”