Ken Barlow is reportedly set to be perused by a Coronation Street newcomer.
The Weatherfield resident has been married three times and his head is set to be turned by a new character played by Absolutely Fabulous actress Helen Lederer.
The former Celebrity Big Brother contestant is said to have already filmed her scenes which will play out on screen in the next few weeks. A TV source told The Sun: “Despite being Weatherfield’s oldest resident Ken still has an eye for the ladies and his character is very charming.
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“Corrie stars are paid per episode so this storyline will help boost Bill’s earnings. Bosses know what he’s going through and bringing in Helen as Ken’s new love interest will mean more air time, which means more cash.” It comes after Bill, 91, was given three months to clear his debts.
(Image: ITV)
On Monday (March 11), his eye-watering debt was reduced due to payments made. However the soap veteran is hoping the sale of his home will cover pay off the rest of his staggering bill, according to Jacquille Jarrett, representing HMRC.
His case has been adjourned for another 12 weeks, until June 10, for the settlement of the remaining balance. The amount now owed was not revealed in court but last month it was reported that he owed £546,000 in tax. Roache did not appear in court and it is understood he earns approximately £250,000 a year, making him one of the highest paid cast member on set.
(Image: Dave Benett/Getty Images for Hea)
A Coronation Street spokesperson later added: “We’re really sorry to hear of Bill’s financial situation. He has an ongoing contract with Coronation Street and remains a much-loved member of the cast.” During lockdown, Bill decided to bring in some extra cash by selling videos to fans online.
He decided to sign up to Celebrity Video Messages, a service where fans can pay a fee to certain big names and receiver a personalised message from their idol. The actor charged £35 per video which he would send off within four to seven working days. He also signed up to Cameo, where he continues to sell personalised videos.
(Image: Will Roache, Will Roache Photography Ltd.)
Bill, who has appeared in Corrie for 64 years. has since upped the price on the site as he now charged £51 to film a clip for his loyal legion of fans. Despite his money troubles, Bill previously shut down retirement claims.
He told viewers in an ITV documentary on his 90th birthday: “People will say, ‘When are you retiring? Are you going to take a break?’ But then what happens? Whilst I can do it, and whilst they will have me, I have no intention of retiring. I am so fortunate to work for an organisation that is happy to have me.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
