Bill Roache, the man behind Coronation Street stalwart Ken Barlow, is reportedly facing bankruptcy.
The actor is said to have had a petition over tax arrears filed against him by HMRC.
The financial blow to Roache comes despite the 91-year-old being one of the best-paid stars on the ITV soap.
It’s believed the record-breaking actor rakes in around £250,000 a year for his performances on-screen.
An HMRC spokesperson said it doesn’t “comment on individual cases” but did provide background on similar instances.
A spokesperson told the Mirror: “We take a supportive approach to dealing with customers who have tax debts, and do everything we can to help those who engage with us to get out of debt, such as offering instalment plans.
Bill Roache bankruptcy: The Ken Barlow star remains on the ITV soap
ITV/SHUTTERSTOCK
“We only petition for bankruptcy as a last resort.”
Roache hasn’t publicly released a statement but ITV soap Coronation Street has thrown its support behind the actor.
A spokesperson for Coronation Street added to the publication: “We’re really sorry to hear of Bill’s financial situation.
“Bill has an ongoing contract with Coronation Street and remains a much-loved member of the cast.”
Bill Roache: The Coronation Street star had a petition filed against him on Tuesday
GETTY
The petition was lodged at London’s High Court on Tuesday, January 23 but details of the tax debt remain under wraps.
According to LBC, Roache will conduct his own defence in the matter.
Roache will continue to rake in his pay packet from Corrie bosses for another year at least after he reportedly signed on for a 63rd year on the soap in December.
The actor has played Ken Barlow since 1960 when the soap first got underway.
Coronation Street’s Ken Barlow: Bill Roache made his debut on the soap in 1960
ITV/SHUTTERSTOCK
He’s a Guinness World Record holder as the longest-serving TV actor in a continuous role.
His services to drama were recognised by royalty in 2022 when King Charles awarded him an OBE for his services to drama and charity.
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