Former EastEnders actress Cheryl Fergison has secured a new stage role after enduring severe financial hardship. The actress, who once earned a six-figure salary on the BBC soap, recently revealed she lost up to £500,000 in an alleged scam.
Fergison rose to fame for playing Heather Trott in EastEnders. However, in recent years, she faced major financial setbacks. She said an accountant failed to file and pay her taxes, despite showing proof that payments had been made. As a result, she lost between £400,000 and £500,000 and remained liable for the unpaid tax.
Financial Struggles and Public Honesty
The actress admitted she relied on food banks two years ago and again this year. She explained that acting work often comes in waves, which makes income unpredictable. Therefore, she claimed benefits during periods without work to cover essential expenses.
Fergison said she deposited a large pay cheque into her bank account but later withdrew it to pay tax authorities. She described the situation as an ongoing struggle and said she still tries to recover financially. Despite the setback, she urged others not to feel ashamed of seeking help when needed.
New Stage Opportunity Brings Fresh Hope
However, Fergison has now returned to the stage in a new production titled Living the Life of Riley. The play will run at the Beacon Arts Centre in Greenock. It focuses on Joanne Riley, a mother navigating life after her son receives an autism diagnosis.
Katie Price announced the project through a video message. She shared her personal connection to the story, as her son Harvey has autism. Consequently, the collaboration has drawn attention from fans who admire both women’s resilience.
Meanwhile, Katie Price recently returned to the UK after registering her marriage to businessman Lee Andrews on February 17. Her involvement in the stage production has added further interest to the project.
Fergison’s comeback highlights determination in the face of adversity. Although she endured significant financial distress, she continues to rebuild her career step by step.
