Shane Richie has returned to filming EastEnders, taking on his character Alfie Moon, following a drink-driving charge and the finalization of his 19-year marriage. The actor, 62, was seen on the BBC set in north London alongside Jessie Wallace, who plays his on-screen wife Kat Slater.
Richie was charged with drink-driving earlier this month after police were called to a Tesco petrol station in Harlow, Essex. The incident reportedly began when Richie was challenged for vaping on the premises. Footage showed an exchange where Richie stated, "It's not smoking," and later, "This is not a vape." When staff raised concerns about the risk, Richie responded, "I don't give a f***." The petrol station manager called the police, describing Richie as "aggressive."
Despite the charge, Richie is legally permitted to drive until his court appearance next month. While vaping at a petrol station is not a specific offense, petrol station companies typically prohibit it due to safety concerns related to potential sparks near flammable fuel.
Sources indicate that EastEnders bosses are standing by Richie, with an insider telling The Sun that the actor received a "strip torn off him" by show executives but that "no further action is being taken." The insider added that Richie is a "huge part of the show" and that the cast and crew "only want the best for him," offering him support and help. However, other reports suggest that those close to Richie believe he may be "spiralling" and could potentially be let go from the soap due to the demanding schedule and personal stress.
This situation follows the finalization of Richie's divorce from his wife, Christie Goddard, 47. Their 19-year marriage reportedly ended on July 23, just six days before the petrol station incident. The couple, who share three children, were said to have sold their family home of 18 years in Surrey for £1.75 million. Sources close to Christie suggested the divorce was her decision, stemming from her being "fed-up with his spiralling behaviour" after years of issues.
Richie's character, Alfie Moon, has recently taken over as landlord of the Queen Vic pub in EastEnders, placing him at the center of the show's storylines and reportedly leading to a grueling filming schedule. Richie is also preparing for a tour in September, which involves rehearsals. A source noted that Richie tends to drink when stressed, a fact he has been open about.