Former Brookside actor Brian Regan, once a familiar face on British television, is now serving a seven-year prison sentence for masterminding a £1 million criminal empire. The 59-year-old, who played Terry Sullivan in the iconic Channel 4 soap, was convicted of running a large-scale operation involving drug trafficking, money laundering, and counterfeit goods.
A Life of Crime Behind the Scenes
While Regan portrayed a lovable rogue on screen, his real-life activities were far more sinister. Police uncovered his involvement in a sophisticated network that distributed illegal substances across the UK. His operation also dealt in fake designer clothing and electronics, with proceeds funnelled through complex money laundering schemes.
The Downfall of a Soap Star
Regan's criminal activities came to light following a lengthy investigation by the North West Regional Organised Crime Unit. Detectives described his operation as "highly organised" and "professionally run", with Regan at its centre. Despite his attempts to conceal his involvement, evidence including phone records and financial transactions proved decisive in court.
The actor, who appeared in Brookside between 1993 and 1995, had struggled to find consistent acting work after leaving the show. Friends suggest this professional frustration may have contributed to his turn to crime. However, Judge Anthony Cross QC dismissed any notion of mitigation, stating: "You abused your position of trust and exploited others for financial gain."
A Cautionary Tale
Regan's case serves as a stark warning about the consequences of organised crime. His sentence reflects the seriousness of offences that police say caused "significant harm to communities". As the entertainment industry reacts to the news, many are left wondering how a once-promising career could have taken such a dark turn.
