'Coronation Street' stars are reportedly furious that they've been banned from performing in pantomimes.
Coronation Street
Bosses are said to have told actors they can't sign up for festive plays until they've left the ITV soap, despite stars from rival dramas securing six-figure sums for roles.
A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper : "People think it's unfair. Stars can make as much for three or four weeks' work over Christmas than in an entire year. People were saying, 'If they can do it, why can't we?' Some of the younger cast aren't on a lot of money so to be able to boost their income would be a dream come true. It's not a happy ship."
'EastEnders' stars including Steve McFadden (Phil Mitchell), Shane Richie (Alfie Moon), Jessie Wallace (Kat Moon), Adam Woodyatt (Ian Beale), Rita Simons (Roxy Mitchell) and Jake Wood (Max Branning) have already landed deals for pantomimes later this year.
Meanwhile, Jake - who competed on the last series of 'Strictly Come Dancing' - has announced he will be taking a 12-month break from the BBC One soap.
He said: "I have been at 'EastEnders' for 9 years and I feel the time is right to give Max a break but it won't be for too long as I shall be back next year to see Max face another chapter of drama."
Tagged in Jessie Wallace Steve McFadden Shane Richie