Coronation Street enthusiasts are wringing their hands as they fear a familiar face may be recast, after the shock departure of a beloved actor from the ITV drama.

Last month, fans cheered the news that Martin Platt (played by Sean Wilson) was set to return for a storyline bidding farewell to Gail Platt (Helen Worth), who’s waving goodbye after an epic half-century run.

Martin, Gail’s ex-husband and longstanding character from 1985 until his exit in 2005, was last glimpsed on the cobbles six years back. Yet, the bubble burst when it transpired that Sean had hung up his Weatherfield boots.

The show’s spokesperson spilled the beans to The Mirror, saying: “Sean Wilson has stepped down from filming for personal reasons.”

With Sean bowing out, Corrie watchers were left feeling deflated, and now, rumour mills are buzzing with talk of Martin possibly getting recast – a move that’s sparked an uproar among loyal fans, reports the Liverpool Echo.

Helen Worth and Sean Wilson in character as Gail Rodwell and Martin Platt in television soap Coronation Street, circa 1989

An X viewer vented online: “Recast no pls don’t do Gail’s exit dirty by recasting him. I get storylines have been written for Martin to return ect and he’s going to whisk Gail away but if it’s not Sean then what’s the point.” (sic).

Another chimed in with doubts: “They’re surely not gonna recast Martin Platt.”

A third avid fan fumed: “I’m sorry but if Martin Platt is recast on @itvcorrie the show can f**k off. Already done with it but was going to tune in for Gail’s farewell.”

Coronation Street confirms Martin Platt return details as actor reprises role after six years (Image: ITV)
Back in July, Sean’s reprisal as Martin Platt was all the rage. Commenting on his short-lived comeback he noted: ‘It was great to be invited back to Coronation Street again, to contribute to Helen’s exit story.

“We’ll have a few months to catch up with Martin and Gail again, following the ebbs and flows of the unfolding storyline. Playing Martin has been a joy since day one and in a way, I’ll be slipping back to where I left off, which no doubt will throw a spanner into the heart of the Platt family.

“It’s just like slipping on an old and comfortable jumper from the back of the wardrobe… I’m looking forward to reuniting with my TV family.”