Coronation Street actor Gareth Pierce has suggested that his character Todd Grimshaw's 'dark side' could resurface following the departure of his mother, Eileen, played by Sue Cleaver. Cleaver, who has portrayed Eileen for 25 years, is set to leave the cobbles in the coming months, having announced her exit in January amid a battle with self-criticism. Despite the door being left open for her return, she is keen to pursue new adventures.
Pierce, 44, told Metro that without Eileen's influence, Todd may revert to his manipulative and callous behaviour. 'That would be a good experiment to see whether the devilish side of Todd emerges more, or less, without his mum keeping an eye,' he said. He added that love is at the core of their relationship, but it is masked by sarcastic banter, and they often 'go at each other like vipers'.
Fans will recall Todd's past immoral actions, but he has since redeemed himself and become well-liked among Weatherfield residents. Pierce, who took over the role from Bruno Langley in 2020 after Langley was convicted of sexual assault, enjoys exploring the character's duality. 'I don't think we should lose that villain either,' he remarked, noting that Todd's ability to manipulate people remains.
Meanwhile, Todd is set to enter a new relationship with scaffolder Theo Silverton, played by James Cartwright. Pierce hinted that Todd is 'fed up with the dating game' and may be seeking something more lasting. The storyline will explore whether Todd can maintain his reformed character without his mother's guidance.
