Long-running Coronation Street character Roy Cropper could die off-screen in an "accident", according to reports.
The character, played by David Neilson on the ITV soap, was seen leaving Weatherfield in an episode earlier this week, with his exit from the show devastating viewers.
The café owner had struggled recently amid believing that he had played a part in the death of Natasha Blakeman, played by Rachel Leskovac, who was shot earlier this year.
She had been killed with a gun which had previously been in the possession of Abi Franklin (Sally Carman) - which Roy had known about and he even lied to the police about it.
Feeling that he had inadvertently contributed to Natasha's death, the character handed over his assets to his niece, Nina Lucas (Mollie Gallagher). He told he was had found a job in South America and subsequently left Weatherfield.
It's unconfirmed whether Roy has gone for good, though the Express speculates that he could die off-screen.
The outlet said that he could be involved in a "tragic accident" in the coming months and with "medication unable to save him, he could die off-screen."
It speculates that fans could learn of his death through Nina and that the character's body would be brought back to the UK.
As previously reported, actor David teased recently that he might not be coming back to the ITV soap after Roy's exit.
The 72-year-old told Inside Soap magazine: "There are two exits in this for me: one for the character and one for David. Hopefully, they won't coincide – maybe they will."
He acknowledged that Roy leaving would "get a reaction," saying that it's a "big part" of his life and "popular culture."
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The actor added: "He will be remembered for a long while."
The Mirror approached ITV for comment on the speculation.
Corrie continues tomorrow on ITV from 7.30pm. Previous episodes are on the ITV Hub.
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