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Coronation Street Cast Wars: Favouritism Accusations Spark Outrage

BBG News

Actors from the popular show Coronation Street find themselves at odds with the show’s management following reports that Samia Longchambon and Sair Khan were given permission for profitable endorsement contracts, while other cast members were not offered the same opportunity, allegedly.

In the past few months, the ITV soap opera has faced a series of financial reductions, leading several well-known actors to depart en masse from the series.

Currently, it’s being reported that notable figures have increased their income through partnerships with external brands. Previously, Samia was seen in an advertisement for Marks and Spencer together with her spouse, Sylvain.

37-year-old Sair managed to share a high-definition promotional video of a £2,500 Italian oven by Bertazzoni on social media, which goes against the standard policy at ITV that prohibits commercial endorsements for soap opera actors, without prior authorization from superiors.

It seems this action has allegedly upset some actors from the ITV soap, as one source revealed to The Sun that they’ve been prevented from taking on comparable job opportunities.

As a dedicated follower, I expressed to a publication that I found myself in a situation where two endorsement deals I secured were denied, seemingly due to my status. What struck me was the apparent disparity: it seemed like there was one set of rules for those with polished PR images, while the rest of us faced a different set.

We’ve consistently been advised: no advertisements, no endorsements – absolutely nothing promotional, not even a post on Instagram.

Individuals remain silent, preferring not to stir up trouble or face consequences, yet beneath the surface, simmering anger exists.

A spokesperson for Coronation Street stated to The Sun that they don’t disclose specific instances, but the cast understands that every commercial offer is reviewed and handled individually via an approval system.

TopMob has contacted a representative for Coronation Street for comment.

Since 2000, Samia has taken on the role of Maria Connor in Coronation Street, whereas Sair began playing the character Alya Nazir in 2014.

According to our internal records, all external jobs need prior authorization and should not contradict ITV’s commercial allies nor compromise the dignity of a character portrayed by an actor.

Or more concisely:

All outside work needs approval in advance, must not clash with ITV’s business partners, and should preserve the on-screen persona of actors.

According to reports, the ITV soap is facing difficulties because of an alleged financial crisis, along with discontent among the cast due to unsatisfactory work environments and low wages.

In January, it was alleged that certain popular actors on the show may have their scenes at The Rovers Return pub reduced or eliminated to save money.

As established stars earn higher per-episode wages, it’s been noted that the show leans increasingly on its fresh faces since they receive lower payments.

On the cobbled set, salaries can differ quite a bit. Established stars such as Bill Roache are rumored to make approximately £2,000 for each episode, whereas newer cast members typically receive around £400 for their appearances.

In her last year on the show, Gail Platt, portrayed by Helen Worth, was present in merely 26 out of a total 304 episodes, whereas Bill’s character, Ken, appeared in 48 episodes during that same period.

Some of the middle-tier and newer actors on the show have expressed concern that their characters might be eliminated to make way for the more senior cast members.

In the previous year, it was announced by the new head of the show that various characters may be leaving due to some unforeseen departures planned for 2025.

For the past few months, Charlotte Jordan, Sue Cleaver, Sue Devaney, Colson Smith, and Luca Toolan have each made public declarations that they are stepping away from the series.

Other actors have reportedly vented their fury on a WhatsApp group over fears they could be next.

According to the source, there’s been a lot of chatter on a WhatsApp group regarding worries over where the next cut might occur.

Currently, the situation is quite challenging for the soap opera, and the impact is trickling down. There seems to be an expectation that reductions in staff may occur as a cost-saving measure, with the aim of retaining high-profile actors such as Bill Roache and Jack P Shepherd.

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

‘Filming can be challenging. Someone complained they were treated like overworked dogs. The era of generous compensation has passed.’

Recently, it has been disclosed that managers are devising a fresh strategy for additional financing, and have submitted an application to officially register the ‘Corrie’ trademark.

As reported by The Mirror, they have submitted an application to the UK’s Intellectual Property Office to sell branded merchandise for enthusiasts to purchase.

According to the report, the documents were submitted a month ago, and upon approval, they will be valid for ten years, thereby prohibiting others from exploiting the well-known Corrie name during this period.

It’s often stated that managers aim to leverage a popular brand name for selling items such as toiletries, cosmetics, kitchenware, bedsheets, and even fragrances.

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2025-05-08 02:34

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