Actors Shane Richie and Jessie Wallace, long-time co-stars on the British soap opera EastEnders, are reportedly developing a closer relationship in real life.
This alleged deepening of their bond comes in the wake of Richie's recent marital split and a drink-driving charge. Richie, who portrays Alfie Moon, officially divorced his wife Christie Goddard after 19 years of marriage. The divorce was reportedly finalized on July 23. Just six days later, on July 29, Richie was involved in an incident at a petrol station in Harlow, Essex, where he was challenged for vaping and subsequently arrested and charged with drink-driving. He is scheduled to appear in court next month.
Sources indicate that Wallace, who plays Kat Slater on the show, has been a source of support for Richie during this tumultuous period. An insider told The Sun that Wallace has been a "shoulder to cry on" for Richie, expressing concern for his well-being. "He’s been Jessie’s work husband for donkey’s years and she knows him inside out," the source added, noting that their friendship has evolved into a closer connection since Richie's breakup.
Richie and Wallace have a long professional history, having played on-off lovers on EastEnders for approximately 25 years. Their on-screen chemistry has been a long-standing element of the series.
Reports suggest that Richie's wife, Christie Goddard, initiated the divorce, reportedly becoming “fed-up with his spiralling behaviour.” A source described Goddard as being at the end of her tether, stating that the decision was not made lightly and was a result of a build-up of issues rather than a single incident. Concerns were reportedly raised about Richie's work-life balance, with suggestions that his behavior had spiraled. Goddard's primary concern, according to sources, remains their three children, and she was reportedly shocked by Richie's drink-driving arrest, hoping it would serve as a wake-up call.
The incident at the petrol station involved Richie being challenged after being seen vaping. Footage from the event showed him arguing with staff, claiming the device was not a smoking cigarette and later stating "I don't give a f***" when challenged about the risk. Police were called to the scene, leading to his arrest. While it is a criminal offense to smoke at a petrol station due to fire risks, vaping is not specifically illegal but is prohibited by most petrol station companies. Richie is legally permitted to drive until his court appearance.