Coronation Street Star Simon Gregson Hosts Curry Night to Tackle Mounting Debts
Coronation Street icon Simon Gregson, renowned for his long-running role as Steve McDonald, is taking unconventional steps to address his severe financial difficulties. The actor is currently selling tickets priced at £37 for a curry night event, as part of efforts to repay a substantial loan of £252,000 and stave off the threat of losing his home.
Financial Struggles and Asset Sales
Simon Gregson, aged 51, finds himself in a precarious financial position following the liquidation of his business, Simon Gregson Productions Ltd. The company owed approximately £165,000 to tax authorities and banks, leading to a demand for a £252,000 repayment from its funds, which were transferred into a separate account under the actor's control. In response, Gregson has been actively seeking ways to generate income, including putting his 2005 black Ford Fiesta up for auction.
However, these measures appear insufficient to meet his obligations promptly. As a result, he has agreed to participate in a fan event titled "Paul Cowland hosts an audience with Simon Gregson," scheduled for next month in Derby. Tickets for this five-hour meet and greet are available at £25 per person, with an option to add a curry and drink for an extra £12, bringing the total to £37. The event promises an evening of discussions about his life, passion for cars, and experiences on the iconic soap opera.
Debt Repayment Challenges and Legal Proceedings
Gregson's financial woes intensified when he triggered a confidential government report by moving the £252,000 from his company into a private account. Initially, liquidators indicated that he had agreed to repay the amount at a rate of £1,500 per month, with the balance to be settled through the sale of his house after 36 months. However, recent filings reveal that over the past 12 months, only £18,000 has been repaid, falling short of expectations.
Liquidators Begbies Taynor noted in their report: "We have received £18,000 during the year under review in respect of the overdrawn Directors loan account which is in line with the terms of the settlement agreement. We have been unable to conclude our duties during this period, in view of the balance outstanding on the Directors loan account. Consequently, the administration of the case will continue into the next period." The costs associated with winding up the business are estimated at around £51,000, though a cap of £44,000 was set for expenses.
Career Highlights and Future Prospects
Simon Gregson first graced the screens of Coronation Street in 1989, quickly becoming a household name through his portrayal of Steve McDonald. Over his 37-year tenure, his character has been central to numerous dramatic plots, including imprisonment and near-fatal incidents, while also gaining notoriety as a serial womaniser with seven marriages.
As the soap opera continues to evolve, viewers speculate about potential storylines, such as a reconciliation between Steve and his former partner Tracy, especially with the impending departure of Cassie Plummer, played by Claire Sweeney. This development could pave the way for renewed romantic entanglements on the cobbles.
Despite the ongoing curry night event not yet selling out, Gregson remains determined to navigate his financial challenges while maintaining his connection with fans through such engagements.
