Coronation Street star hits back at 'rival' amid soap's cash crisis

Soap in turmoil

Coronation Street actress Samia Longchambon has responded to a suggestion from celebrity agent Melanie Blake that her character, Maria Connor, should be axed amid the ongoing financial struggles facing the long-running ITV soap.

Character under fire

Blake, who represents some of Corrie's top talent, expressed her opinion on social media that Maria should be the next to go, citing a lack of compelling storylines for the character.

Samia's response

Longchambon, who has portrayed Maria since 2000, defended her character and questioned why Blake felt she should be fired, leading to a public exchange between the two industry figures.

Cast concerns

The tension comes as the soap faces financial pressures, with several cast members recently departing and remaining actors reportedly anxious about potential job cuts to save costs.

Tough times on set

Insiders revealed that some cast members have voiced complaints about long working hours and uncertainty about their future on the show as the production grapples with budget constraints.