Soap stars may be beloved on our TV screens, but that doesn't mean they always find success in their business ventures. From failed restaurants to bankrupt film production companies, these telly favorites learned the hard way that their side hustles were more trouble than they were worth.
Adam Thomas
Strictly hunk Adam Thomas, known for his role in Emmerdale, found himself in hot water earlier this year when his restaurant business, The Spinn, owed the taxman over £100,000. The total amount owed by the company was a staggering £300,000, leaving Adam at risk of losing everything. Despite injecting his own money into the business, it seems Adam couldn't save it from going under.
Danny Dyer
EastEnders star Danny Dyer wasn't able to replicate his on-screen success in the film industry. His production company, Old Mother Media, went bust, leaving him with a £25,000 debt to the tax office. The company failed to produce successful films, with one even being dubbed the worst British film ever made. It seems Danny's talents are better suited for the small screen.
Adam Woodyatt
Even being one of EastEnders' longest-serving cast members couldn't guarantee success for Adam Woodyatt. His gin company, Neat Distillery Ltd, went bust with debts of up to £13,370. Despite claiming to have a diverse list of outlets and distribution, Adam couldn't keep his business afloat. It seems the soap star's talents lie primarily in acting, not distilling gin.
Charlie Lawson
Coronation Street's Charlie Lawson, known for playing Jim McDonald, faced legal action when his deli company went bust. The posh farm shop had outstanding debts of £37,000 and had to close its doors. This isn't the first time Charlie has faced financial trouble, having declared bankruptcy in 2001. It seems his ventures outside of acting have been less than successful.
Jamie Lomas
Hollyoaks star Jamie Lomas saw two of his businesses go under last year, leaving him with debts of £92,000. His production company and acting school both struggled financially, with neither having enough assets to cover the amounts owed. Both companies had to rely on the government's furlough scheme during the pandemic. It seems Jamie's entrepreneurial endeavors were hit hard by the economic downturn.
Danny Miller
I'm A Celebrity winner Danny Miller wasn't able to keep his performing arts company afloat. The Cannon Professional Acting Company was in debt to the tune of £117,528, including unpaid taxes and bank loans. Despite having assets worth £45,300, Danny had to liquidate the company. It appears that even jungle fame couldn't save his business.
Beverley Callard
Coronation Street's Beverley Callard faced financial troubles with her personal services company, JMBJ. The company owed over £215,000, with overdrafts, taxes, and trade creditor debts contributing to the massive sum. This wasn't the first time Beverley faced financial hardship, having previously declared bankruptcy in 2012. It seems that even soap success doesn't always ensure financial stability.
Charley Webb
Emmerdale star Charley Webb had to close down her hand-crafted toy business, Nördi Bäbi, due to other work commitments. Despite initially referring to the venture as a dream side hustle, Charley realized she didn't have enough time to dedicate to the business. She had to drastically reduce prices to clear the remaining stock. It seems her love for Scandi-inspired toys couldn't keep the business afloat.
