Tony Maudsley, who plays George Shuttleworth in Coronation Street, has become a beloved figure on the show since joining in 2020. The Kirkby-born actor has earned praise for his portrayal of the warm-hearted funeral director, who is currently in the spotlight due to Eileen Grimshaw’s emotional exit storyline.
Eileen, portrayed by Sue Cleaver, is leaving the soap after 25 years, and her character’s departure has raised questions about the future of her relationship with George. In the storyline, Eileen begins to rethink her priorities following the death of her sister Julie Carp, who encouraged her to move on from George. This has created tension in the couple’s otherwise happy romance, and fans have been worried about whether George will leave the show too.
Social media users took to X (formerly Twitter) to express their concern. One fan wrote: “Now that Eileen’s leaving I’m worried about George. I like him and hope he stays.” But Tony reassured everyone, posting in March: “That’s George serving (and burying) the good folk of Weatherfield till at least July 2026. Happy days!”
This isn’t Tony’s first time on Coronation Street—he originally appeared in a brief role 30 years ago, right after drama school. Speaking to Lorraine Kelly, he said: “Corrie was my very first job out of drama school, so I’ve kind of come full circle.”
Tony has made it clear he’s happy with his current role and has no intention of leaving. He told Inside Soap in 2021: “They can’t get rid of George as there would be no one to bury him! I hope that doesn’t happen in the near future as I’m happy on Corrie.”
Outside of Coronation Street, Tony is well known for playing Kenneth du Beke in Benidorm and surprised fans by revealing his lesser-known role as Grawp in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix. He shared a throwback photo from a visit to Harry Potter World, which left fans and even co-star Colson Smith amazed.
Tony has also impressed viewers with his recent physical transformation. Fans have noticed and praised his weight loss, both on screen and on social media. After a photo with Stephen Mulhern from ITV’s Corrie vs Emmerdale quiz, fans flooded the comments: “Wow Kenneth from Benidorm has shredded some serious terry!” and “You look amazing.”
As Eileen prepares to leave the Cobbles, George looks set to stay—keeping fans entertained with his signature charm, and proving he’s become a key part of Coronation Street’s heart.