According to reports today, Coronation Street star Simon Gregson is to take ‘an extended break’ from the popular soap in order to recover from ‘an illness’.
The 40-year-old, best known for playing the role of Steve McDonald in the beloved ITV show, is expected to be away from the iconic cobbles for at least three months.
A source broke the news to The Sun this weekend, saying that Steve’s on-screen struggle with depression had taken its toll on the father-of-two.
“He put everything into it. It had a big impact on him because it helped to raise awareness of a condition which affects thousands of people. He’s decided to take a bit of time out and has the support of everyone on the show,” said the unnamed source.
It is not yet known how Corrie bosses will handle Simon’s period of leave on the show.
Simon announced back in May that he and wife Emma Gleave are expecting their third child. Initially, they were expecting twins, but tragically, Emma miscarried one of the babies early into the pregnancy.
We hope that Simon is able to enjoy his downtime.
