Real-life cases that rocked soap land
Soap star crimes have shocked fans over the years, from rape to drug scandals. Recently, Hollyoaks actor Philip Hamer was jailed for 28 years after being found guilty of 41 sex offences, including rape. But he's not the only one. Let's take a look at other horrifying real-life cases that have made headlines in the world of soap operas.
EastEnders Killer: Youssef Berouain
EastEnders actor Youssef Berouain was jailed for causing a fatal car crash that took the life of an England cricket star's mum. Berouain fled the country after the incident, but was eventually extradited and sentenced to eight-and-a-half years in prison.
Home and Away Horror: Orpheus Pledger
Australian actor Orpheus Pledger, known for his roles in Neighbours and Home and Away, made headlines after being arrested for assaulting a woman. Pledger was sentenced to seven months in jail but later appealed, receiving community work and treatment for mental health issues instead.
Coronation Street Drug Scandal: Craig Charles
Coronation Street actor Craig Charles battled a drug addiction, admitting to spending £250,000 on crack cocaine. He accepted a caution for possessing drugs in 2006, went to rehab, and eventually returned to the show. Charles, now clean, works as a DJ for BBC Radio 6.
Brookside Fraud: Philip Foster
Former Brookside actor Philip Foster was jailed for masterminding a £13.6 million fraud involving fake modelling agencies. Foster was sentenced to eight-and-a-half years for conspiracy to defraud, along with other defendants involved in the scam.
Dark Past of Soap Star Leslie Grantham
EastEnders' Leslie Grantham, known for his role as Den Watts, had a dark past. In 1966, he was convicted of murder after a robbery gone wrong. Despite his past, Grantham became a successful actor until his career suffered a setback in 2004.
Nightclub Attack: Bruno Langley
Coronation Street actor Bruno Langley was fired from the show and pleaded guilty to sex attacks in a nightclub. Langley was given a community order, placed on the sex offenders' register, and ordered to compensate his victims.
