Coronation Street spoilers follow.

Coronation Street’s George Shuttleworth makes a bombshell decision next week, amid his recent business troubles. With his livelihood and reputation both at risk, could selling up be the funeral director’s only option?

George has been on the receiving end of a shocking smear campaign, after his recently deceased client left him a large sum in her will. The client’s daughter Annie accused him of fraud and hired lawyer Adam Barlow to sue him.

christina, todd grimshaw, george shuttleworth, coronation street

ITV

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Meanwhile, Annie’s claims and negative online reviews have been driving other customers away, with Theo Silverton adding fuel to the fire. Though George has been trying to hold on to his father’s legacy, the business appears to be on its last legs.

Later this week, George is set to appear in court as he defends himself against Annie’s hurtful accusations. Viewers know that he is completely innocent, but what will the judge’s verdict be? And will the business recover, even if George manages to clear his name?

Things continue to escalate in next week’s episodes, when an estate agent arrives at Shuttleworth’s funeral parlour. Feeling defeated after months of false claims and vitriolic insults, George guides them inside.

What is the purpose of their visit? Has George really decided to give up the ghost and sell his beloved family business?

george shuttleworth, glenda shuttleworth, coronation street

ITV

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“George doesn’t see a future for the business,” our Corrie source explains. “He’s faced weeks of bad reviews and bogus fraud claims, all sparked by his dispute with Annie, which has clearly spiralled out of control.

“He’s done a brilliant job continuing his father’s legacy in recent years – but is it now time to quit and remember the good times?”

Coronation Street airs on weeknights at 8.30pm on ITV1 and streams on ITVX.

Read more Coronation Street spoilers on our dedicated homepage

For exclusive soap star interviews, gossip, spoilers and theories every week, don’t miss the Soap Scoop podcast from Inside Soap magazine. The latest episode delves into next week’s soap spoilers for EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale – as Gary Windass battles Theo Silverton, and Kim Tate is rocked by a poisoning mystery!