Why is Alex Bain leaving Coronation Street and when does Simon Barlow leave?

After 15 years, Alex Bain filmed his final scenes on the Weatherfield cobbles as he prepares to explore other ventures.

The 22 year old actor, who has played Simon Barlow in Coronation Street since the age of seven years old, was reportedly axed from the ITV show, which left him gutted. And for the first time since it emerged of Alex’s exit, plans of his final scenes has now been revealed. Last year, viewers saw Simon start to spiral out of control after he waved goodbye to his on-screen father Peter Barlow, played by Chris Gascoyne, as he embarked on a new life at sea. Peter struggled with his mental health after he killed serial killer Stephen Reid, played by Todd Boyce.

Simon starts to grow close to cult leader Rowan, similar to his on-screen step mum Leanne, and in upcoming scenes fans will see Simon faced with two options that will see him leave Weatherfield for good. On noticing that Rowan is trying to convince Simon to join his cult, Nick and Toyah contact Peter at sea and inform him of the trouble Simon is in. Peter offers to give Simon a job at sea, which he tells Nick and Toyah he’s accepted. But viewers will have to wait until later this summer to see if Simon is lying about joining his dad or has secretly become part of Rowan’s cult.

Alex filmed his final scenes back in April. Speaking of his exit, a source told The Sun: “Alex is sad to be leaving Coronation Street because it really is like a family — but he realises that the time is right to move on.He’s very excited about the future and other opportunities.” Alex has previously teased a new career path away from the ITV soap and it has nothing to do with acting.

In June 2020, Alex launched a company called Mjöllnir Productions Ltd, which according to Companies House, it’s registered under the nature of television programming and broadcasting activities. Alex is listed under his full name as the only person with significant control of the company. And he told fans: “That will be happening over on my performance production page @mjollnirproductionsltd as soon as it’s safe to get underway creating again! Y’all are gonna have to wait until then but be prepared.”

But Alex also hinted at a career in dance and music. When he was questioned about collaborating with Ella Hammill, he replied: “Don’t worry it’ll come soon @ella_hammill! Just wait till people see what music we can cook up between us! They won’t know what hit them! [sic]” And speaking of his exit, Alex told his followers back in April: “That’s a wrap for Simon Barlow. Thank you to [everyone] at Coronation Street for the best 15 years of my life. Might be grey skies but I adore [ITV filming studios] so much. Love you all my Corrie family.”