Coronation Street is lining up a dramatic exit for Theo Silverton – as his dark storyline with Todd Grimshaw comes to an end later this year.

Fans have been eagerly awaiting the moment Theo gets his comeuppance after months of abusive behaviour towards Todd.

Plans to write out Theo have now been revealed in The Sun on Sunday, although his final storyline is currently being kept under wraps.

Digital Spy understands that James Cartwright, who plays Theo, always knew that he was joining Corrie for a specific storyline which would ultimately lead to his character’s departure.

A show spokesperson told us: “James joined Coronation Street on a finite contract and was fully aware of his character’s story arc and how long he would be in the show.

“He still has scenes to film in the Todd/Theo storyline and will be on screen until later this year.”

Earlier this year, Theo was named as one of five characters who could be killed off in a big episode on 23 April – the day of Carla Connor and Lisa Swain’s wedding.

A recent flashforward scene showed Betsy Swain being interviewed by the police after finding a body.

News of Theo’s departure could add weight to theories that he will meet a brutal end next month – but the other possibilities remain in the running.

Carl Webster, Jodie Ramsey, Maggie Driscoll and Megan Walsh are the other four residents under threat in the storyline.

Corrie began exploring the issue of domestic abuse in a same-sex relationship last year, as Theo started tormenting Todd behind closed doors.

The story took a shocking turn in soap crossover episode Corriedale at the start of this year, as Theo left Billy Mayhew to die after the local vicar had uncovered his sinister secrets.

More recently, Theo unexpectedly decided to end his relationship with Todd – but is still keeping a close watch on him, hinting that his desire for total control is far from over.