‘Coronation Street’ favourite Simon Gregson, who plays Steve McDonald, is set to take some time out from the soap, according to reports.
The actor was reported to have taken a break from ‘Corrie’ in late 2014, and he will now be spending some time off set in the coming months.
Simon has played Steve McDonald since 1989
Simon’s wife Emma is currently expecting the couple’s third child, and a source has told The Sun that the actor simply needs a well-deserved break, following his recent, huge depression storyline.
“He put everything into it,” the source tells the paper. “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.”
The 'Coronation Street' press office has confirmed to HuffPost UK that Simon has booked time off.
Simon was not due to star in next week’s live show, and it is believed that his exit storyline is yet to be decided upon.
The ‘Corrie’ cast and crew are currently getting ready for a huge shake-up, as producer Stuart Blackburn is stepping down from his role, making way for ‘Emmerdale’ producer Kate Oates.
It’s believed that Kate will breathe fresh life into the soap, which has struggled to impress viewers and critics in recent months.