Actor Shane Richie, known for his role as Alfie Moon in the BBC soap 'EastEnders,' has reportedly found comfort in co-star Marianne 'Mazz' Murray following the finalization of his divorce from Christine Goddard. The couple's 19-year marriage was officially dissolved on July 23, according to reports.
Richie, 62, was also reportedly charged with drink-driving on July 29, a week after his divorce was finalized, following an incident at a Harlow, Essex petrol station. Amid these personal challenges, sources close to the actor suggest that Murray, 51, has been a source of support. "Shane and Mazz have always got on like a house on fire and in recent months, as his marriage crumbled, Shane’s found himself buoyed by their friendship," a source told The Sun.
The friendship between Richie and Murray is said to have deepened as they have shared experiences of personal difficulties. "She’s had a painful split of her own so the pair have found solace sharing their experiences. They make each other laugh, trust and like each other so it’s no surprise they’ve grown closer," the source added. Friends are reportedly optimistic about the development of their relationship, noting "It’s early days, but Shane and Mazz have a spark, and friends are looking forward to seeing where their relationship goes."
Murray has a history of working with Richie, having appeared with him in multiple guest stints on 'EastEnders' and the 1999 musical 'Boogie Nights.' She previously played a character named Miranda who flirted with Richie's character Alfie in 2004 and had a single episode appearance in 2017. Most recently, she returned to 'EastEnders' to portray the mother of character Joel Murray.
Reports suggest that Christine Goddard, 47, initiated the divorce, reportedly becoming "fed-up with his spiralling behaviour." According to a source, the decision was not due to a single incident but a culmination of issues. "Christie was at the end of her tether with Shane and had had enough. The divorce was her decision and she pursued it after talking it through with relatives. She had put up with a lot over the years and has had a really hard time of things lately," the source stated.
The couple's joint company, Bluebelle Skye Productions, which they have managed since 2017, also saw Christine terminated as director in June, reportedly diminishing her control over their business. Despite the divorce, Goddard has not asked Richie to leave their £2 million family home, with her primary concern being their three children. She was reportedly "shocked" by Richie's drink-driving arrest and hopes it serves as a "wake-up call."