Coronation Street may bid farewell to a character deeply ingrained in the show’s fabric for 47 years, as she contemplates a new chapter away from the familiar cobbles.

Fans of the long-running soap will recall the recent upheaval in Tracy Barlow’s life, portrayed by Kate Ford, upon discovering that her romantic interest Tommy Orpington, played by Matt Milburn, had secured a job as a football coach in Spain. Tracy received this news from her ex-husband Steve McDonald, portrayed by Simon Gregson, who took some delight in revealing Tommy’s departure to sunny Spain.

Earlier this year, Steve was left shattered upon learning of Tracy’s clandestine relationship with Tommy, formed after their chance encounter at the flower shop on Christmas Day. Tracy’s affair has deeply affected Steve, their daughter Amy (played by Elle Mulvaney), and Tracy’s father Ken Barlow (played by Bill Roache).

Upcoming scenes suggest Tracy may follow her heart and relocate to Spain to be with Tommy. In next week’s spoilers, Steve discovers a letter from Tommy inviting Tracy to join him in Spain, which he opts to conceal.

During a lunch at the Bistro, Tracy confides in Amy about missing companionship, as reported by the Mirror. Later, Steve returns home to find Tracy present. As he prepares to reveal Tommy’s letter, Tracy surprises him by expressing her desire to reconcile.

Tracy assures Steve that her involvement with Tommy was a mistake and pledges her commitment to their reunion. Encouraged by Tracy’s words, Steve ventures out to procure a bottle of wine to celebrate. However, his announcement of their reconciliation to Dev Alahan meets with disbelief, leading to an awkward encounter.

In a bid to salvage their marriage, Steve discreetly disposes of Tommy’s letter, but impending events suggest Tracy might stumble upon it. Spoilers hint at Tracy preparing to depart for Spain, bidding emotional farewells to her loved ones.

As Tracy’s departure looms, Ken proposes a farewell gathering at the Rovers, where they raise a toast to her new journey. Despite his efforts to mask his feelings, Steve’s demeanor arouses sympathy from Amy, leaving questions lingering about Tracy’s ultimate decision and her future on the cobbles.

Tracy’s character has been an integral part of Coronation Street since 1977, with Kate Ford taking on the fiery role since 2002, following earlier portrayals by Christabel Finch, Holly Chamarette, and Dawn Acton.