Coronation Street’s Matt Milburn Addresses Tommy Orpington Exit – and His Hopes to Return
“There’s Room for Tommy to Come Back”
Coronation Street favourite Matt Milburn has opened up about his character Tommy Orpington’s dramatic exit earlier this year — and revealed that he hasn’t ruled out a return to the cobbles.
Speaking on Soap Scoop, the Inside Soap podcast that features weekly cast interviews, Matt shared his gratitude for the role and his enthusiasm for revisiting Tommy in the future. “There’s room for Tommy to come back!” he said with a grin. “He’s not been killed off. Corrie for me, it’s up there as one of the top jobs. For me personally, it’s perfect.”
The actor added that filming in Manchester holds a special place in his heart. “I’m a Manc. My family’s from Manchester. It’s filmed in Manchester. Logistically, it’s great for me — I get to see my family while I’m working. It’s such an iconic show, and if you’re an actor from the North, especially my age, Corrie’s always been on your bucket list.”
Tommy’s Rise, Romance, and Departure
Tommy Orpington first arrived in Coronation Street back in 2016 as a local football hero turned decorator, making occasional appearances before returning full-time in 2023 for a surprising romantic storyline with Tracy Barlow.
Their fling began when Tommy was hired to redecorate No.1, but what started as harmless flirtation quickly developed into a serious relationship. The pair even planned a move to Spain together. However, cracks soon appeared when Tommy’s coaching ambitions clashed with Tracy’s longing for home.
In the end, Tracy returned to Weatherfield while Tommy pursued work in Southampton — leaving their relationship in ruins, but crucially, leaving Tommy very much alive.
What Could Be Next for Tommy Orpington?
Asked which characters he’d like to mix with if he ever returned, Matt had a few ideas. “I think Jacob [Roberts], who’s playing Kit, is doing a great job,” he said. “It’d be good to come in and ruffle a few feathers with him. I think that would be quite fun. And I’d love to get involved with a few of the newer characters too.”
His comments have sparked speculation that a future Coronation Street storyline could see Tommy back on the cobbles — perhaps stirring up drama for Tracy or crossing paths with Kit, the new detective in town.
From Soap Star to Stage Villain
While Tommy Orpington’s story may be on pause, Matt Milburn is keeping busy away from Weatherfield. He’s currently starring in the UK theatre tour of The Bodyguard, taking on the role of Sy Spector.
“It couldn’t be a more contrasting character to Tommy,” he said. “He’s impatient, a little darker, and a lot of fun to play. It’s my first musical too — so everything’s new, but I’m loving it.”
Still a Fan Favourite
Tommy’s mix of charm and vulnerability made him one of Corrie’s most likable guest characters, and fans have been vocal about wanting his return. With the door left open, and Matt Milburn clearly eager to step back into Tommy’s shoes, a comeback may not be far off.
As Matt teased, “You never know — there might be a window to come back in the future. Who knows?”