😱 TIM AXED? Coronation Street ‘Tim’ Actor Faces Major Ski Injury… — In shocking news that’s sent ripples through Coronation Street and its devoted fanbase, beloved actor Joe Duttine — who’s portrayed the iconic Tim Metcalfe for over a decade — is reportedly facing a major setback after suffering a brutal ski accident that could sideline him for months. Sources close to production say the incident occurred during a winter getaway in the Alps, where Duttine was enjoying a short break between filming blocks. What was meant to be a relaxing escape turned terrifying when a fall on the slopes left the actor with severe leg injuries, sparking immediate concern about his future on the long-running ITV soap. “It was a freak accident,” an insider revealed. “Joe was skiing with friends when he hit a patch of ice and lost control. He was taken off the mountain by rescue team and airlifted to hospital. Everyone on Corrie was shaken when they got the call.” The extent of his injuries has not been fully disclosed, but multiple insiders have hinted that recovery could take “several months,” throwing his upcoming storylines into chaos. Duttine, who’s been at the heart of some of Coronation Street’s most emotional and dramatic plots — from Tim’s turbulent marriage to Sally to his heart surgery and family secrets — was reportedly about to begin filming a major spring storyline that would have put his character front and center. Now, with production scrambling, writers are said to be working around the clock to rewrite scripts and restructure episodes to explain Tim’s sudden absence. “This couldn’t have come at a worse time,” one source admitted. “Tim was about to take on a huge arc that connected him to several key characters, including Sally, Elaine, and even a shocking return from someone in his past. The team is devastated, but the priority is Joe’s recovery.” Despite rumors that the accident could mean Tim’s permanent exit, insiders insist that no final decision has been made — though producers are said to be exploring temporary workarounds. “There are no plans to recast,” the source emphasized. “Joe is Tim. He’s irreplaceable. The writers are committed to keeping the door open for his return as soon as he’s well enough.” Still, fans have taken to social media in panic, fearing the worst. “Tim can’t leave — he’s the heart of Weatherfield!” one fan tweeted, while another posted, “First Peter, now Tim? Corrie can’t lose another legend.” The online community has flooded Joe’s accounts with messages of love and support, praising his humor and warmth both on and off-screen. “Joe’s one of the good ones,” a co-star told local press. “He’s got this calm, kind energy that everyone loves. The whole cast is rallying around him.” Behind the scenes, producers are reportedly rewriting upcoming scripts to either temporarily write Tim out or explain his absence through a storyline that allows him to “take time away” — possibly through a business trip or off-screen family emergency. Others have hinted that this may even spark Corrie’s first-ever mini crossover with Emmerdale, as part of a larger ITV narrative adjustment designed to keep storylines running smoothly during Duttine’s recovery. “It’s a logistical nightmare,” said one insider, “but everyone’s determined to make it work. They love Joe too much not to.” In recent months, Duttine had been riding a wave of fan appreciation for his nuanced portrayal of Tim’s evolving relationship with Sally (Sally Dynevor) — particularly after his emotionally raw performance during Tim’s health battles and therapy scenes earlier this year. “He’s one of those actors who makes every scene feel real,” a production member said. “Even when the storyline goes wild, Joe grounds it.” As of now, neither ITV nor Duttine’s representatives have released an official statement, though insiders say the actor remains in good spirits despite the painful setback. “He’s joking with the crew, saying he’s lucky it wasn’t his tea hand,” one colleague shared with a laugh. “That’s classic Joe — always finding the humor.” Still, the road to recovery could be long, and fans may have to wait a while before seeing Tim back behind the Rovers bar or teasing Sally in their living room. For now, the Coronation Street family is pulling together to support their colleague — and viewers are left hoping this isn’t the end for one of Weatherfield’s most beloved men. “It’s been a tough year on set,” another insider sighed. “Losing Tim, even temporarily, feels like losing the heartbeat of the street. But knowing Joe, he’ll fight his way back — and probably have everyone laughing before the crutches are gone.” ❤️‍🩹