Coronation Street's Ryan Russell responds to co-star exit

Coronation Street star Ryan Russell has opened up about his feelings regarding co-star Nathan Graham’s exit from the show.

In an interview with Inside Soap, the actor revealed what his thoughts are on his co-star’s departure.

“It’s sad because we came into Corrie together three years ago and built up not only a professional relationship, but also a personal one,” he said.

ITV

“I do miss Nathan, we’ll always stay in touch. I was literally just texting with him this morning,” he added.

It is natural for them to develop such a close bond, given the fact that the two actors played the role of siblings while on the show.

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Nathan Graham exited the show as James Bailey earlier this month after receiving an emotional farewell from his family and friends as he took up a job as a football coach for a youth centre near Lewisham.

Nathan spoke to Digital Spy at the time about his decision to leave the show after three years of being on it.

ITV

“I hadn't put a time frame on it, no. I am the sort of person who lives in the moment and goes with what feels right. When it came to my decision to leave, it was very difficult. It was a tough thing to decide, obviously for various reasons,” he explained.

"Going from a place of security to not knowing what is next is scary and a risk. But then also, it was just the right decision and it felt right. I had a good chat with [Coronation Street producer] Iain MacLeod and he understood my decision.

"I have had some great storylines and I did wonder where the character could go next, so I felt it was time to go and do something different for me,” he added.

Coronation Street airs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at 8pm on ITV and streams on the ITV Hub.