After 11 years, Daniel Brocklebank confirms he’s filmed Billy Mayhew’s dramatic exit storyline 😢 “It’s befitting… but I won’t miss the people — I’ll still see them all the time!”
After more than a decade on the cobbles, Coronation Street star Daniel Brocklebank has opened up for the first time about his dramatic exit from the ITV soap. The actor, who has portrayed vicar Billy Mayhew since 2014, confirmed that his time in Weatherfield will come to an emotional close early next year — and his final storyline promises to be one of the show’s most powerful in years.
Speaking exclusively on the red carpet at the Inside Soap Awards 2025, Daniel described his feelings about leaving after such a defining chapter in his career. “It’s a mixed bag of feelings,” he admitted. “I am so excited. I’ve been an actor for 32 years, 11 of which have been spent at Corrie. That’s a long time — a third of my career has been here.”
A Departure “Befitting” Billy’s Journey
While Daniel remained tight-lipped about how Billy will bow out, he hinted that the exit storyline will do the character justice. “I know what my storyline is,” he teased. “Of course I’m not going to tell you that, but yes, I do know. I am happy with it. I think it’s befitting.”
Soap bosses have already teased that Billy will be “tested in ways he never imagined” in the coming months — sparking fan theories that his exit could be tied to the dangerous Theo Silverton (portrayed by newcomer Lewis Cope).
Recently, viewers have seen Theo’s possessive streak deepen, as he grows increasingly jealous of Billy’s bond with Todd Grimshaw (Gareth Pierce). With Todd caught in the middle of a toxic love triangle, many fear that Billy could find himself in serious danger before his time on the Street comes to an end.
“It’s tough times,” Daniel acknowledged. “Todd’s going through a bit of a rough patch. I think Billy is a little none-the-wiser at the moment! But I’m always looking forward to exploring the drama — that’s what we do best at Corrie.”
New Beginnings: From the Pulpit to the Stage
While fans prepare to say goodbye to Billy Mayhew, Daniel is already stepping into an entirely new world. The actor revealed that he will be heading straight into a musical theatre production once he wraps up filming on Coronation Street.
“What I’m most excited about is the work that’s coming up,” he said. “I’m going straight into Mel Brooks’ Young Frankenstein at the Playhouse in Leeds. So I’m diving into something completely different — comedy, a musical. I think I might even be doing a bit of tap-dancing, which Billy never did! He took heroin, he never tap-danced!” he laughed.
The new role will showcase a lighter, more playful side of the actor after years of portraying the compassionate but troubled vicar — a character who battled addiction, heartbreak, and faith crises throughout his time on the Street.
A Legacy of Heart and Humanity
Since joining Coronation Street, Daniel Brocklebank has become a fan favourite, praised for his heartfelt portrayal of Billy’s struggles with morality, love, and forgiveness. His departure marks the end of an era — and while the details remain under wraps, one thing is certain: Billy Mayhew’s exit will leave a lasting mark on Weatherfield.
As for Daniel, he’s ready for what comes next. “I can’t wait to get back out there into the world and see what’s going on,” he said with a smile. “It’s been amazing — but I’m ready for a new adventure.”