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Coronation Street bosses ‘face revolt from stars who say they’re worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs’

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Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'

It’s been reported that the heads of Coronation Street could be dealing with an uprising from some of their stars, following the departure of five actors from the show.

In the town of Weatherfield, there seems to be some unease among the middle-tier cast members and newer stars, who fear that their roles might be cut due to cost-saving measures.

As reported by The Sun, some of the newer cast members express concerns that they might be replaced to ensure the continued presence of veteran actors such as Bill Roache and Jack P. Shepherd on the show.

According to reports, there is an active WhatsApp chat filled with discussions about potential future cuts or changes.

times are challenging for the soap opera, and these difficulties seem to be trickling down throughout the production. There appears to be a sense that budget cuts may be imminent, with the aim of maintaining key high-salary actors such as Bill Roache and Jack P. Shepherd on the payroll.

The insider added that cast members have also complained about the long working hours. 

Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'

Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'

They noted: ‘Filming can be challenging. One individual complained they were ‘treated like workhorses’. The era of generous compensation has passed.’

TopMob has contacted representatives of Coronation Street for comment.  

On the popular British soap opera “Coronation Street,” salaries can differ quite a bit. For instance, established actors like Bill Roache are reportedly paid approximately £2,000 for each episode, whereas newer cast members typically receive around £400 per appearance.

Rising television production expenses and a decline in advertising income are reportedly threatening the continued existence of the ITV soap opera.

It’s been suggested that certain popular actors may have their scenes at The Rovers Return pub edited out as a cost-cutting measure.

After Charlotte Jordan declared her departure from the series, a move that followed in the footsteps of Sue Cleaver, Colson Smith, and Helen Worth, who also left.

According to a source, Charlotte’s departure is merely the beginning of larger changes. The Coronation Street production team is facing significant financial difficulties, leading them to make tough choices.

The expenses associated with TV production have surged by over 50%, yet the market for advertising that usually funds these projects is nearly non-existent. Consequently, the cast isn’t content, and unfortunately, ITV must make cost reductions.

2023 saw The Rovers Return closed for an extended period due to owner Jenny Connor’s (played by Sally Ann Matthews) financial difficulties.

Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'
Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'

It’s believed that this storyline was implemented as a covert strategy for budget reductions, since it allowed the creators to omit big crowd scenes at the pub.

In her last year on the soap, Gail Platt, portrayed by Helen Worth, was only present in 26 out of a total 304 episodes.

On Tuesday, Charlotte Jordan announced that she would be leaving the cobbles as she desired to pursue new ventures.

As I reflect on my journey, the four extraordinary years spent on Coronation Street will forever hold a special place in my heart. Now, it’s high time for me to turn the page, seize the day, and embark on fresh adventures, uncovering new opportunities that await.

I’ve felt honored to contribute to such an exceptional establishment, filled with exceptional individuals who have generously shared their knowledge with me.

Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'
Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'
Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'

61-year-old actress Sue Cleaver, known for her role as Eileen Grimshaw, declared last week that she would be leaving the show following a 25-year tenure, in order to take on fresh acting opportunities.

The actress has started shooting her departure scenario, yet she’ll continue to be seen on TV screens well into late spring.

Through her comments, the Loose Women panel member clarified that the character Eileen will not be written out by the producers, suggesting there might be a chance for her to come back at some point in the future.

Sue stated: “For the past 25 years, I’ve been fortunate enough to work on Coronation Street. Although the opportunity remains, I chose my 60th birthday as a milestone to pursue change, seek fresh experiences, and live boldly.

Additionally, it was verified that Colson would be departing during the summer, marking the end of his 14-year tenure portraying police officer Craig Tinker on the soap opera.

Over the weekend, the 26-year-old actor shared with TopMob that he learned in autumn of 2024 he would no longer be a part of the series, being informed privately about his exit from the show.

Looking back at his experience on the program, Colson openly admitted that he cherished ‘each and every moment’ of it and feels incredibly grateful to have been associated with the show for such an extended period.

Last autumn, I learned from someone that Craig Tinker’s tenure on the Cobbles would conclude in 2025, and I passed this information along to TopMob.

Coronation Street bosses 'face revolt from stars who say they're worked like dogs and fear being axed to cut costs'

For fourteen years, I’ve cherished every moment living on what I believe is the finest street globally. I consider myself extraordinarily fortunate to have spent my formative years on, near, and about Coronation Street.

I’ve picked up most of my life lessons from the community that I consider my home. I’m eager to see how the final chapter unfolds for our dear Craigy.

For myself, this marks the conclusion of the initial phase. I’m truly excited to discover what the next stage holds for me.

According to reports, character Debbie Webster, portrayed by Sue Devaney, might be written out from the show this year, as part of a powerful narrative focusing on dementia, following her six-year stint with the cast.

On Christmas Day, Corrie’s special episode attracted just 2.6 million viewers, marking Gail Platt’s departure from the series after a span of 50 years.

Last week, The Sun reported a possibility where producers can only secure agreements lasting up to the end of 2025 due to stricter financial constraints.

A source told the publication: ‘The cast of Corrie is huge and some aren’t getting enough episodes.

Some individuals who get compensated per episode find themselves needing additional income sources, such as appearing at events or posting ads on Instagram, just to make their mortgage payments.

Many actors from the show currently work under temporary contracts, such as Maureen Lipman and Kate Ford. These agreements provide flexibility, allowing them to appear, depart, and even take lengthy vacations. It has been communicated that no cast member can be assured of a contract extending past 2025.

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2025-01-10 02:33

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