Coronation Street fans are bracing for a chilling twist as toxic newcomer Theo Silverton appears to be pushing Todd Grimshaw to the brink — and now, viewers suspect the story could end in murder. The ITV soap has been carefully laying the groundwork for one of its most disturbing psychological thrillers in recent years, and the online theories are only growing darker by the day.

Theo’s Control Tightens

Since arriving on the cobbles, Theo (James Cartwright) has wormed his way into Todd Grimshaw’s (Gareth Pierce) life, transforming from charming suitor to calculating abuser in record time. What began as subtle control has now escalated into full-scale psychological torment.

In recent episodes, viewers watched in discomfort as Theo pressured Todd into training for a half marathon, pushing him past his physical limits while ignoring signs of pain and exhaustion. Later, in a moment that sent social media buzzing, Theo gifted Todd a full-length mirror — insisting he should “monitor his body shape daily.”

But it didn’t stop there.

Jealousy, Isolation, and Escalation

Theo’s possessiveness has been especially clear when it comes to Billy Mayhew (Daniel Brocklebank), Todd’s close friend and ex. Even casual interactions — like James Bailey delivering workout clothes — have sparked Theo’s jealous outbursts. When Theo saw James lightly flirt with Todd, he didn’t just fume — he lashed out, accusing Todd of betrayal and storming into one of many rage-fueled tantrums.

Now, according to upcoming Coronation Street spoilers, things are about to get even more disturbing.

Theo reportedly forces Todd to stay hidden in their flat for days to prevent neighbours from seeing his bruises — a horrifying sign that the abuse has turned physical. Todd’s friends begin to worry, but Theo ensures no one gets close. Not even Billy.

Fans Fear the Worst — Will Billy Die?

Online forums have exploded with dark speculation about how far Theo will go. With actor Daniel Brocklebank set to leave the soap after 11 years as Billy Mayhew, fans are now convinced the storyline will end in tragedy.

One theory gaining traction is especially grim: Theo will murder Billy in a jealous rage and frame Todd for the crime.

“Does anybody else think Theo will kill Billy and frame Todd?” one fan posted. “Another innocent person in prison.”

“Nothing would surprise me with Theo,” another viewer replied. “He’s capable of anything.”

“I hope not,” a third added. “Todd’s been through enough already.”

Is There Another Twist?

Not all fans believe Todd will be the fall guy. One alternative theory suggests the roles could be reversed — Billy might kill Theo in self-defense or in a last-ditch effort to save Todd. That version would allow the show to write Billy out with a possible future return, serving a prison sentence softened by public sympathy.

“He won’t get long in jail,” one fan reasoned. “The jury will see how abusive Theo was. Other victims will come forward.”

Whatever happens, Coronation Street is clearly building toward a massive emotional climax. With the psychological abuse storyline ramping up and Daniel Brocklebank’s exit confirmed, the question isn’t if something terrible will happen — it’s who will survive it.

And for Todd, time may be running out.