For more than three decades, Simon Gregson has been one of Coronation Street’s most recognisable and enduring faces.

As the sharp-tongued, often unlucky-in-love Steve McDonald, he has delivered laughter, heartbreak and unforgettable moments

to millions of viewers. But away from the cobbles of Weatherfield, the veteran actor is now facing a far more sobering real-life drama—one

that threatens his financial security and even his family home.

The 49-year-old star is currently complying with a legal order to repay a missing £252,000 loan linked to his production company. Despite making steady repayments, new reports indicate Simon could still be forced to sell his house as the financial fallout continues to mount.

At the centre of the storm is Simon Gregson Productions Ltd, a company that went into liquidation owing around £165,000 to both HM Revenue & Customs and a bank. The collapse of the firm triggered intense scrutiny of Simon’s conduct as a director, particularly after it emerged that £252,000 had been transferred from the company into a private account. This prompted a confidential report to the government, a standard procedure when such financial discrepancies arise during liquidation.

Initially, liquidators revealed that Simon had been instructed to repay the missing funds at a rate of £1,500 per month. The arrangement was strict but clear: after 36 months, any remaining balance would have to be settled through the sale of his property. For a star who has enjoyed long-term job security on one of Britain’s most successful soaps, the possibility of losing his home marked a dramatic and humbling turning point.

Coronation Street star Simon Gregson is in a financial bother

The actor plays Steve McDonald on the ITV soap

A newly filed report into the failed company has now shed further light on Simon’s financial situation. According to documents submitted this week, the actor has repaid £18,000 over the past 12 months, adhering to the agreed repayment plan. Liquidators Begbies Traynor confirmed: “We have received £18,000 during the year under review in respect of the overdrawn Director’s loan account, which is in line with the terms of the settlement agreement.”

However, the report also makes clear that the ordeal is far from over. With a substantial balance still outstanding, the liquidators stated that they have been unable to conclude their duties, meaning the administration of the case will continue into the next financial period. In simple terms, Simon’s financial problems remain unresolved, and the threat to his home has not disappeared.

Adding to the pressure are the significant costs associated with winding up the company. The liquidation process itself has reportedly cost around £51,000, although a cap of £44,000 has been placed on expenses. Even so, the mounting fees underline just how expensive and drawn-out corporate financial troubles can become—especially when personal assets are at stake.

Compounding matters further, Simon has also been hit with a £100,000 tax bill, another heavy blow that has intensified his financial strain. While his long-running role on Coronation Street provides a regular income, these combined obligations have reportedly forced the actor to seek additional ways to boost his earnings.

In a move that surprised and impressed fans in equal measure, Simon has taken on extra work as a tour guide at the Coronation Street Experience in Greater Manchester. The popular attraction allows fans to explore the iconic sets of Weatherfield, and cast members are paid around £500 per appearance to guide visitors through the studios.

Simon’s participation has been warmly received, with fans delighted to meet the man behind Steve McDonald in person. Tickets for the tours cost £55 per person, and promotional material has enthusiastically praised Simon’s involvement. “What’s even better than going on the Coronation Street Experience guided tour?” the website reads. “It’s our Star Tours of course! What a lovely guy Simon Gregson (aka Steve McDonald) was when he joined us last week!”

The attraction has also highlighted appearances by other beloved cast members, including Sally Dynevor, Sam Aston, Chris Gascoyne, Julia Goulding and Andy Whyment. For Simon, joining this roster is not just about fan engagement—it’s a practical step toward managing his financial responsibilities during an exceptionally challenging period.

Simon and his wife Emma are at risk of losing their Cheshire home

Despite the seriousness of his situation, Simon’s determination to meet his obligations has not gone unnoticed. By sticking to the repayment schedule and taking on additional work, he has demonstrated a clear commitment to resolving the issues linked to his company’s collapse. Yet the looming possibility of being forced to sell his home casts a long shadow over his efforts.

Industry insiders note that Simon’s case is a stark reminder of how quickly financial fortunes can change, even for established television stars. Unlike short-term acting contracts, long-running soap roles can create the illusion of stability—but behind the scenes, business ventures and tax issues can unravel with devastating speed.

Simon’s journey on Coronation Street has been nothing short of remarkable. He joined the show in 1989 at just 15 years old and has remained a central figure on the soap for 37 years, aside from a brief five-month break in 2015. Few actors can boast such longevity in a single role, making his current personal struggles all the more poignant for fans who feel they’ve grown up alongside him.

As news of his financial woes continues to circulate, public sympathy remains divided. Many fans have expressed concern and support, praising Simon for taking responsibility and working hard to repay what he owes. Others see the situation as a cautionary tale about the risks of mixing fame with business ventures without sufficient safeguards.

Representatives for Simon have been contacted for comment, but at the time of writing, no official statement has been released. What is clear, however, is that this is one of the most challenging chapters of the actor’s life—far removed from the scripted chaos of Weatherfield.

As Simon Gregson continues to juggle repayments, additional work, and the ongoing administration of his failed company, the future remains uncertain. Whether he will ultimately be able to save his home is yet to be seen. But one thing is undeniable: the man who has brought Steve McDonald to life for nearly four decades is now fighting a very real battle of his own—one that proves even soap legends are not immune to life’s harshest twists.