Charlie Lawson, the actor known for portraying Jim McDonald on Coronation Street, has openly criticized the show's bosses for what he describes as the "ruining" of his character through a weak final plotline. Lawson, who has been associated with the role since 1989, expressed his dissatisfaction following the announcement of Jim McDonald's off-screen death. The character, who has been integral to numerous serious storylines including themes of alcoholism, infidelity, and domestic violence, has undergone a significant evolution over the years, which Lawson feels was not adequately honored in the character's final storyline.

Throughout his time on the show, Jim McDonald has been known for his complicated relationship with Liz, played by Beverley Callard, with the couple's tumultuous history including two marriages and multiple separations. Fans of the show were particularly invested in their relationship, which added a personal dimension to Jim's character. Lawson's concerns highlight a broader conversation within the soap opera genre regarding character development and the impact of story arcs on viewer engagement. He noted that despite his character's complex history, the show failed to conclude his narrative in a meaningful way.

With an extensive background in portraying a character that resonated with many viewers, Lawson's remarks could have implications for the show's future direction and the way it develops its characters. As soap operas often rely heavily on dramatic storytelling and character growth to retain their audience, Lawson's feedback underscores the potential consequences of narrative choices made by showrunners, suggesting that they risk alienating devoted fans by sidelining significant character arcs in favor of less impactful storylines.