Sally Ann Matthews Faces Meeting After Coronation Street Rant Over Budget Cuts

In a surprising turn of events, Coronation Street actress Sally Ann Matthews is set to attend a meeting with ITV bosses after making public comments regarding the soap’s financial struggles. The 54-year-old, who portrays Jenny Bradley, sparked concern among fans and production staff with her recent social media outburst.

Sally Ann Matthews’ Controversial Instagram Post

Matthews posted on Instagram responding to a fan’s query about filming locations. Her response was unambiguously critical, suggesting ITV lacked the funds for on-location shooting.

She stated, “We don’t do on location … right … ok so the whole ‘Corrie doesn’t do location any more.’ Thankfully because I fricking hate being on location – location is s**t – I hate it. So I’m glad ITV have got no money – am I allowed to say that? Well I have said it.”

Reaction From the Production Team

The sardonic tone and public airing of internal concerns did not sit well with Coronation Street’s producers. A TV insider elaborated, “It’s not the first time Sally has raised eyebrows with her comments. It’s no secret that the budget isn’t what it used to be, but it’s not something that the actors are encouraged to speak about publicly.”

According to the insider, “She’s due to go in and meet with bosses and talk about how she is feeling on the soap in general. She’s clearly not happy and neither are they.”

Background on Sally Ann Matthews and Coronation Street

Sally Ann Matthews has been a cornerstone of Coronation Street since her debut in 1986. Her character, Jenny Bradley, has been a fixture in the show’s landscape, making her one of the longest-serving actors in the soap opera. Despite initial stints away from the cast, Matthews returned full-time in 2015.

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Matthews’ recent comments came after previous speculation that her contract might be terminated. In an earlier Instagram live session, she expressed a desire for “happier times,” a comment that fueled concerns about her job security.

Financial Challenges in Coronation Street

Coronation Street has faced declining viewership and financial pressure, leading to concerns among cast members about their future with the show. ITV has reportedly considered offering shorter contracts, creating uncertainty for actors, including Matthews.

The financial issues have affected the production in various ways, including reduced on-location shooting. This decision has not been met with universal approval from the cast, with some actors like Matthews openly questioning it.

Impact on Viewers

Coronation Street’s recent performance in ratings has also raised eyebrows. During the festive period, Gail Platt’s farewell scene, which traditionally garners strong viewership, attracted only 2.6 million viewers. This decline raises questions about the show’s long-term sustainability and the satisfaction of its loyal audience.

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Conclusion

Sally Ann Matthews’ public criticism of Coronation Street’s budget constraints and production changes highlights the challenges facing the long-running soap opera. As the industry faces financial pressure, how sitcoms adapt to these changes will be crucial not just for the artists involved, but also for their devoted audiences.

This meeting between Matthews and ITV bosses is a significant step, signaling a need for clear communication and resolution of these issues. Fans will be watching closely to see how this situation unfolds and what it might mean for their favorite show.

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