Coronation Street star Andy Whyment has responded to claims about his earnings, highlighting the varying salaries among the cast. In a recent Instagram post, Whyment showcased his new Kia car purchase, sparking curiosity and discussions about the financial realities of TV stars.
Whyment, who has portrayed Kirk Sutherland for over two decades, addressed the assumption that he earns a substantial income. He responded to a commenter’s query about his perceived wealth, stating, “Kia’s are a decent car, and I don’t earn as much as you probably think I do.”
The actor’s response sheds light on the pay structure within ITV soaps like Coronation Street and Emmerdale. Cast members receive a fee per episode, ranging from £400 to £2,000, with guaranteed episodes per year and a repeat fee. This results in salaries varying widely, from an estimated £12,000 to over £200,000 annually, depending on popularity and seniority.
The highest-paid actors on Coronation Street are believed to be Jack P Shepherd, portraying David Platt, and William Roache, known for his iconic role as Ken Barlow. Shepherd reportedly signed a contract worth £250,000 in 2018, while Roache’s contract renewal in 2021 was estimated to be worth six figures.
Emmerdale, on the other hand, maintains a tighter stance on disclosing salary details. However, stars with extensive appearances, amounting to thousands of episodes, may have accumulated significant earnings over time.
Andy Whyment’s modest car purchase underscores the diverse range of incomes within the Coronation Street cast and challenges the assumption that TV stardom automatically translates into financial abundance.
