Coronation Street star Jonathan Howard has warned of serious consequences for his character Carl Webster, as the show gears up towards its explosive crossover episode with Emmerdale. Carl is among the characters involved as the worlds of both soaps collide for one night only in the New Year.

Conniving Carl is currently keeping several secrets after months of dodgy dealings. His partner Abi Webster is still unaware of his secret fling with James Bailey, although she has spotted some warning signs that Carl isn’t fully committed to their relationship.

Tyrone Dobbs is also yet to discover that Carl was responsible for his terrible accident in September. With so much potential for trouble, it’s no wonder that Carl is secretly planning to do a runner back to Germany…

Speaking exclusively to us at the red carpet premiere for Corriedale this week, Jonathan teased his involvement in the highly-anticipated crossover special.

“I think the writing’s on the wall for Carl,” he admitted. “I don’t know if I’m going to survive this or not.”

“It was really nice to be asked to be part of it,” he continued. “As a kid, I was always hoping for it. I always wanted to see Coronation Street and Emmerdale together. I manifested it 25 years ago! Manifestation works, it just takes a long time!

“So I’m really excited to be a part of it. Carl and Abi’s storyline is kind of coming to a climax with Debbie and Ronnie’s wedding. It’s building to something…”

Soap bosses recently announced that Corriedale will focus on a multi-vehicle road crash which brings in characters from both soaps. Many of the Corrie characters are travelling back from Debbie and Ronnie’s wedding when the disaster takes place.

Asked whether Carl’s exit plans could ultimately see him leave the show even if he survives, Jonathan teased: “Yes, maybe, potentially! I think with Carl, one foot is always out the door.

“Carl’s still figuring it out. Going back to Germany, it’s always a nice safe place to go to. Germany’s lovely – we’ve missed Oktoberfest but the Christmas markets are lovely at this time of year!”