Colson Smith is enjoying a “very special trip” after jetting off to Kenya. The former Coronation Street star has kept busy since leaving his role as Craig Tinker on the Cobbles earlier this year.
In May, viewers were left heartbroken when his character Craig Tinker fell victim to a vicious assault by Mick Michaelis. The soap star had played Craig since he was 11 years old. The fictional police officer was killed off as Colson was axed from the show.
Since his first scenes were aired, Colson has provided plenty of career insights on social media an has not been short of jobs. He has appeared as a presenter on ITV’s This Morning, typically hosting competitions and speaking to viewers from a location away from the studio.
Colson is also diving into a fresh career path as he joins the team at BBC Radio Leeds. Giving two thumbs up in the radio studio, he captioned A post in May: “Day 1, on the mic. First day as a presenter on BBC Radio, covering across Yorkshire!
“A huge Thank you to those that joined me! Same time and place next week! See you then.” Posting a new update to Instagram today, Colson wrote: “Day 1 of very special trip! Super grateful!” alongside a number of safari animals.
Photos shared by the actor showed giraffes, lions, rhinos and leopards. Former co-stars including Andy Whyment and Sally Ann Matthews commented about the safari trip.
Andy, who plays Kirk Sutherland, wrote: “Have an amazing time mate” and Sally who recently announced she would be leaving the role of Jenny Bradley, commented “Oh wow! Have a fabulous time.”
Fans of the ITV star said: “I just got back from 2 weeks in Kenya, loved it saw all big 5!!! Hoping you have an amazing experience!” Another said “Wow my dream to see the giraffes in the wild, have an amazing time.”
Former and current Coronation Street stars gathered for a farewell party after Colson’s last day on set in March. The celebrations came after a heartfelt message about his time on the show.
Speaking ahead of his departure, Colson wrote: “Autumn last year I was told that Craig Tinkers time on the Cobbles is to come to end in 2025. I’ve LOVED every single second of my stay as a resident on the GREATEST street in the world.
”I feel incredibly lucky to have grown up in, on and around Coronation street. I’ve learnt pretty much everything about life from the people who call it home. I’m excited to play out the exit story for Our Craigy.”