After one of Coronation Street’s darkest and most gripping villain arcs, actor Todd Boyce is officially closing the door on Weatherfield — and opening another on the London stage.

The End of Stephen Reid’s Reign of Terror

Stephen Reid’s final moments aired in October 2023, marking the conclusion of a storyline that had kept fans on edge for more than a year. Boyce, who first portrayed Stephen in the 1990s, returned to the role in 2022 to spearhead a chilling murder spree that left the residents of Weatherfield horrified — and viewers riveted.

The climax saw Stephen attack both Sarah Barlow and Jenny Connor before meeting poetic justice: being struck by a car driven by Peter Barlow. Speaking recently, Boyce confirmed that Stephen’s death was final and necessary.

“I think he was getting a taste for these murders towards the end,” Boyce admitted. “He’d become fairly ruthless — irredeemable, really. He absolutely got what he deserved.”

Addressing fan theories that the character might somehow return, the actor laughed off the speculation:

“Yeah, he’s really dead. Unless they bring in a long-lost twin brother with a different accent — and I don’t think anyone wants that.”

Leaving Under — Not in — a Taxi

Boyce expressed rare satisfaction with the definitive end. “Most actors leave in a taxi,” he joked, “but I left under a taxi.” He described his departure as a “lovely, complete package” that gave him closure on nearly three decades of intermittent appearances.

“It won’t be hovering over my head anymore, wondering if they’ll call me back,” he added. “It’s done — and that’s freeing.”

From Soap Villain to Stage Gentleman

Now the veteran performer is trading murder plots for heartfelt comedy. Boyce will headline the world premiere of Possum Trot at London’s Tabard Theatre from November 12 to 29, 2025. The new play by award-winning writer Kathy Rucker introduces him as Dwayne, a “kind-hearted widower” trying to find humor and humanity amid small-town chaos in Nebraska.

“It’s miles away from the murderous monster I’ve just played,” Boyce said with a smile. “This one has laughter, love, and hope — no body bags in sight.”

A Fresh Start After a Killer Run

The shift from serial killer to stage widower underscores Boyce’s versatility — and his determination to redefine himself beyond the cobbles. As Possum Trot tickets go on sale, fans can look forward to seeing a very different side of an actor whose final act on Coronation Street will long remain one of its most unforgettable.