According to reports, 'Coronation Street' star Craig Gazey has agreed a new deal with the ITV soap.
There had been speculation that the 28-year-old, who has played butcher Graeme Proctor since 2008, would leave the show at the end of his current contract in the spring.
A source told the Daily Mirror: "Craig is a highly valued member of the team, but it was touch and go as to whether he stayed. Craig's desire to leave was genuine.
"He wanted to branch out and do more theatre, especially Shakespeare, to broaden his range of acting experience.
"But 'Corrie' were determined to keep him. They consider him one of their shining stars and they can be very persuasive.
"They said his character Graeme would become one of the main players and promised some bumper stories.
"Craig admired their enthusiasm and vision and quickly signed on the dotted line. Everyone is thrilled he's committed to the show."
