Coronation Street producers have reportedly assured the show's top stars that they will all be safe from the axe in the near future.
The unusual move is supposedly a result of the job uncertainty caused by the coronavirus pandemic, with finances across the TV industry being put under the squeeze.
A report in the Daily Star lists a number of Corrie actors who have been assured that new contracts are imminent, including Samia Longchambon (Maria Connor), Daniel Brocklebank (Billy Mayhew), Michael Le Vell (Kevin Webster), Melanie Hill (Cathy Matthews), Simon Gregson (Steve McDonald), Sally Dynevor (Sally Metcalfe) and Sue Cleaver (Eileen Grimshaw).
"The actors have had a tough time over the last year and a bit what with the show going into lockdown, Covid outbreaks on set, reduced episode numbers and social distancing on the show," a source told the newspaper.
"So it's great news that so many of the big name cast want to stay.
"On top of that no-one will be getting the chop just to create a ratings boost.
"The bosses wanted to create a mood where the cast feels secure in such turbulent times."
The soap, which celebrated its 60-year anniversary last December, managed to stay on air throughout the pandemic thanks to clever re-scheduling and a quick return to filming.
Neil Wilkes
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