A public incident involving actor Shane Richie, known for his role as Alfie Moon in the BBC soap EastEnders, has ignited behind-the-scenes tensions and accusations of favoritism among the cast, according to reports.

Richie was recently seen in a video engaging in an expletive-laden tirade at staff at a Tesco petrol station in Essex after being asked to stop vaping on the forecourt. The actor, who plays the character Alfie Moon, reportedly shouted at the employees, who had informed him that vaping on the premises was dangerous.

While fans might expect BBC bosses to take disciplinary action, sources within the show suggest that Richie has not faced significant repercussions. This has reportedly led to anger among some of his younger co-stars, who believe they would have been more severely punished, or even dismissed, for similar behavior. These colleagues have accused the show's leadership of "double standards and favoritism."

Richie is scheduled to appear in a stage show called The Prat Pack tour and a pantomime production of "Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs" later this year. His departure for these planned engagements, which were approved by management months in advance, is seen by some as a convenient buffer, allowing bosses to avoid immediate action.

"Senior bosses are sticking by Shane for now, they have been in contact with him and they have even offered him words of wisdom," a source told the Daily Mail. "It has acted as a safety barrier for EastEnders and relieved bosses don't have to be seen to be taking immediate action but this has caused a lot of upset amongst his co-stars who are furious that he has been allowed to just get away with it."

Insiders claim that younger cast members feel there are different rules for established stars compared to newer or less prominent actors. The report references other long-serving actors like Jessie Wallace and Steve McFadden, who have reportedly been involved in off-screen issues but remain cast members. Conversely, former younger cast members, such as Melissa Suffield, who played Lucy Beale, allegedly exited the show under a cloud for past behavior.

"Some younger actors are extremely annoyed as they know if it was them in this situation, there would not even be a discussion with bosses, they would be dismissed on the spot for bringing the show into disrepute. They just know they would be sacked," a source stated.

Following the petrol station incident, Richie, 62, was arrested and subsequently charged with drink driving. He is expected to appear in court next month.

Richie, who first joined EastEnders in 2002, has had a lengthy career on television and stage, including hosting game shows and starring in musicals. He has previously spoken about undergoing therapy for his temper, stemming from his upbringing, and stated he consumes little alcohol.

Despite the recent controversy and arrest, Richie's commitments for his upcoming stage and panto performances remain in place.