Tony Maudsley is best known for his role as George Shuttleworth on Coronation Street and away from the soap he lives a far less dramatic life
Joe Crutchley Screen Time Reporter
10:49, 28 Mar 2026
Coronation Street George actor’s life from his family to heartbreak over co-star’s death
Tony Maudsley is a beloved figure on Coronation Street – but what do we know about his life off the set?
Tony joined the ITV soap in 2020, portraying George Shuttleworth, the son of the late funeral director Archie (Roy Hudd). Since then, he’s won over viewers and has been involved in numerous major plotlines.
Off-screen, actor Tony leads a far less dramatic life. Here, we delve into the accomplished star’s personal world.
Tony’s Hollywood Stardom
In addition to Corrie, Tony has featured in Queer As Folk, Emmerdale and also starred in the popular ITV sitcom Benidorm, playing hairdresser Kenneth Du Beke from 2011 to 2018.
Moreover, Tony made an appearance in the Harry Potter series in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, portraying Hagrid’s half-brother, Gawp.
Reflecting on his time in Harry Potter, Tony remarked: “It was one of the hardest jobs I’ve ever done. I was weighed down with these huge monster feet that were so heavy, that I could never get into the canteen and back in time.”
Tony also shared screen space with Johnny Depp in the film Sleepy Hollow – but had an awkward encounter with the Hollywood icon. He revealed to Soap Inside magazine: “Very early on in my career, I worked with Johnny Depp on the film Sleepy Hollow.
“At the time, I’d stopped smoking for three years – but Johnny invited me for a roll-up round the back of the set, and I couldn’t say no! So, there I was trying to look cool with Johnny, while choking on a cigarette. It’s been a pretty lovely career.”
Tony’s private family life
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Tony regularly keeps his devoted following of 77,000 Instagram fans informed about his daily activities. Earlier this year, he offered supporters an uncommon glimpse into his personal world when he posted multiple pictures of his beloved dog following a grooming session.
He wrote alongside the post: “Took Bosie to a new groomers today in Worsley Village and they did a great job! They even cleaned his teeth (well the few he’s got left!)”
And in March, Tony honoured his seldom-seen mother after sharing a photograph of them together for Mother’s Day. In the image, Tony appeared delighted standing next to his mum. He wrote with the post: “Happy Mother’s Day from me and mine.”
Tony’s grief following tragic loss
In January 2024, Tony expressed his devastation after his friend Michael McGarrigle – who collaborated with Tony on ITV’s Benidorm – had died.
Tony initially requested assistance from his followers to locate costume supervisor Michael who had disappeared, but days afterwards he confirmed the tragic news that Michael had passed away.
Posting a photo with Michael, Tony shared a heartfelt tribute to his mate: “Thank you so much to everyone for all your efforts in reposting our appeal to find Michael yesterday. I’m so sad to say that we found out late last night that we’ve lost our beautiful friend.
“Our whole Benidorm family is devastated and we’ll miss him hugely. RIP Michael.”
In addition to Benidorm, Michael served as the costume supervisor on programmes such as Prisoners Wives Maternal, The Larkins, DCI Banks, Whitechapel, Mrs Biggs, Annika and The Fear. He was also the co-owner of a musical theatre and cabaret bar in Brighton, Bar Broadway.
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX
March 20 (UPI) — The U.S. Supreme Court on Friday ruled in favor of allowing a so-called street preacher in Mississippi to challenge a law prohibiting where he can protest.
The high court said Gabriel Olivier can file a civil suit in response to a law in Brandon, Miss., that prevents public protests outside of designated areas. He said the law violates the 1st Amendment’s free speech protection.
Police in Brandon, Miss., arrested Olivier in 2021 as he and a group of protesters shouted slurs and insults at concertgoers as they entered an amphitheater. Some members of the group also held up graphic signs showing aborted fetuses.
He was convicted of violating the city’s laws banning protesters from coming within about 265 feet away of the amphitheater and from using loudspeakers that can be heard from more than 100 feet away, CNN reported.
Olivier pleaded no contest to the charges and was ordered to pay a fine and serve a year of unsupervised probation. Following his sentence, he sued the city, saying its law violated his free speech rights.
A 1994 Supreme Court ruling — Heck v. Humphrey — though says that a defendant convicted of a crime can’t then sue over the legality of their conviction. Otherwise, he and other defendants could be cleared of their convictions outside of the normal criminal appeals process, The Washington Post reported.
Olivier’s lawyers said his case should be allowed to proceed because success wouldn’t affect the result of his conviction, for which he wasn’t imprisoned. The Supreme Court agreed with a unanimous vote.
The ruling did not pass judgment on the constitutionality of the city of Brandon’s laws, only that Olivier is allowed to challenge them.
President Donald Trump presents the Commander in Chief’s Trophy to the Navy Midshipmen football team during a ceremony in the East Room of the White House on Friday. The award is presented annually to the winner of the football competition between the Navy, Air Force and Army. Navy has won the trophy back to back years and 13 times over the last 23 years. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI | License Photo
The medieval town boasts cobbled streets, Tudor architecture and rich history – including the reportedly ‘haunted’ Inn that dates all the way back to 1420
The street is at the heart of the town(Image: Getty)
Preserved precisely as it was during mediaeval times, this picture-perfect town boasts a rich history, which is vividly displayed through its stunning architecture.
Nestled in East Sussex, Rye is a hilltop town featuring cobbled streets, charming buildings and a deeply-rooted history. Many buildings remain untouched to preserve their original character, serving as key attractions for the town’s tourism and heritage.
Just two hours from London, this scenic destination isn’t quite a seaside location, but it’s near enough to provide the perfect stopping point between your journeys to the coast.
Indeed, over the years the town has shifted further inland, due to changing coastlines, and whilst no longer on the waterfront, it was once home to a bustling port, now reclaimed by nature.
During mediaeval times, when the town was firmly established with its layout and architecture, it served as a major seaport and ‘cinque port’, which helped to protect against French invasions.
Today it provides the ideal day trip with independent shops, boutique hotels, delicious food spots, and historical landmarks.
Mermaid Street
This charming high street in Rye is frequently described as one of the most attractive in the entire country, with beautifully constructed buildings positioned along a delightful cobbled lane.
One visitor said on TripAdvisor: “A very quaint cobblestone street from the early mediaeval times; some of the buildings were outstanding and well worth a visit and walk up the hill.”
Another visitor commented: “Mermaid Street was definitely one of the highlights of our trip to Rye, and I recommend you set aside at least half an hour to explore this stunning street and take some great photos.”
This charming lane features timber-framed houses from centuries past, many of which enjoy protected status to preserve their historical significance.
Several of the properties, for instance, display plaques bearing distinctive names, including The House with Two Front Doors and The House Opposite, and tourists frequently stop to take photographs outside them.
Whilst it remains a picturesque, Instagram-worthy spot today, it was previously quite the opposite, regarded as one of the town’s most deprived areas. An 1891 census showed it had a notorious reputation as a rat-infested street where more than 70 children crammed into cramped homes, generating a chaotic environment in the locale.
Situated at the very centre of the road, and believed to have given the street its name, is the Mermaid Inn, a hotel that’s been described as one of Britain’s most haunted.
Haunted Hotel
Spanning more than 600 years, this establishment, which offers bed and breakfast accommodation, is a genuine historical treasure, complete with spine-chilling tales to match.
The Mermaid Inn boasts cellars originating from 1156, whilst the structure itself dates to 1420, providing an authentic step back in time for guests and day-trippers alike.
With its sloping ceilings, creaking floorboards and labyrinth of staircases, the building is brimming with character and has been modernised to accommodate an excellent restaurant and two bars, alongside a spacious patio.
For visitors not planning an overnight stay, exploring indoors remains an option. Fortunately, on the final Sunday of each month the proprietor provides a guided tour through the historic rooms as you journey back through the centuries.
After visiting the hotel, one guest said: “We have stayed at the Mermaid Inn a few times before and have never been disappointed. If you go to Rye, you really have to stay at The Mermaid.
“As soon as you walk into this place, you feel the atmosphere of its history, a real step back in time, a time to leave the fast pace of life behind as you enjoy this wonderful place, a feeling of privilege of actually staying there.”
Yet it has a reputation of another kind entirely, thanks to its considerable age, having witnessed countless visitors pass through its doors, while others seemingly refuse to depart, as their spirits linger on.
Multiple rooms are believed to harbour various ghosts, each with their own unique tales, and some guests actively request these particular rooms for precisely that reason.
Take Room 19, the Hawkhurst room, where a guest once reported encountering a gentleman perched on her bed, dressed in period attire. Meanwhile, Room 1 is haunted by a lady in white, or grey, who prefers to sit in a chair beside the fireplace – her favoured haunting location.
In fact, their website catalogues every spectre said to inhabit its premises and the tales that have evolved over time as guests continue to report eerie encounters during their stay. One such instance is tied to room 10, with Fleur De Lys.
The website reveals: “Several years ago, a bank manager and his wife were awakened to find a man walking through their bathroom wall and across the centre of the room. They were so frightened that they spent the rest of the night downstairs in one of the lounges and made the porter bring all their luggage downstairs, plus their clothes.”
Coronation Street’s Megan Walsh was interviewed by police on Thursday’s episode of the world’s longest-running TV soap and things are not looking good for the predatory teacher
Megan has been having a relationship with her student Will on Coronation Street(Image: ITV)
Coronation Street aired a series of dark scenes on Thursday night as various truths about Megan Walsh began to emerge.
For months, the teacher, played by Beth Nixon, has been at the heart of a controversial storyline in which she has been carrying out an illicit relationship with her student Will Driscoll.
While all this has been going on, Megan, who was introduced as the teenager’s private athletics coach, has started up a fake relationship with Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard) although she is pregnant with Will’s baby. Will’s schoolmate Sam, who is in the year below, was the only one to have worked it out but when Megan started threatening him about, he turned to pills to cope and then experienced an overdose. Things were only made worse when Megan became a flatmate of Sam’s stepmum Leanne, worming her way into their lives further.
Coming out with the same old story, she said: “He is a teenage boy who has a crush on me. Probably not the first, probably not the last. Believe me, I haven’t done anything wrong. This is every teacher’s worst nightmare. I’m in complete shock, to be honest. Maybe I overstepped by getting too close to them.
“But that doesn’t mean that I’m grooming their son. I… I became a teacher to give something back, not to… I can’t even say it. It makes me feel sick….” Megan and her lawyer Adam Barlow pointed out that there was no evidence as yet, but DC Kit Green revealed that they had some footage of her and Will together in her flat. This was all a result of Sam’s ill-fated attempt to catch them on camera, only for Megan to realise and stage a performance to cover things up.
Kit warned: ” It’s not looking good, is it, Megan? I think the CPS will agree!” Later on, it became apparent that Megan had been released and she returned home only to find Leanne throwing her possessions out of the upstairs window. A furious Leanne yelled: “I’m putting the rubbish out!” But Megan pleaded: “Oh, Leanne, please, I don’t need this after the day I’ve just had. I’ve already been suspended from work.”
Leanne shot back: “Well, if it was to me, I’d suspend you from that lamppost!” She launched a suitcase out the window and Megan was left with no choice but to pack up her belongings after it bust open and its contents spilled out across the cobbles and Leanne slammed the window shut, effectively making her homeless.
That afternoon, Eva (Catherine Tyldesley) and Ben, who had worked out that Megan and Will had spent his sixteenth birthday together in bed at the Chariot Square, raced to the hotel to see if they could get CCTV footage of that date but, conveniently, the footage had been wiped at midnight, owing to an automatic 90-day setting.
It was then that Eva brought up she something she had been holding back – that Megan had supposedly had an abortion some months ago.
But Megan herself never confirmed this, and Leanne had just happened to come across some pregnancy vitamins in a bedside drawer, prompting the distraught family to realise that she could still be expecting. Realising they could be onto something, Eva said: “If she has lied, then all the evidence we need is growing right there in her belly.”
A deadly Coronation Street blaze will reportedly tear through Roy’s Rolls soon, causing the iconic set to burn down with the stunt apparently leaving a beloved character in danger
16:58, 19 Mar 2026Updated 16:58, 19 Mar 2026
A deadly Coronation Street blaze will reportedly tear through Roy’s Rolls soon(Image: ITV)
There could be a shocking blaze on Coronation Street very soon, with a famous part of the set thought to be destroyed.
Reports claim Roy’s Rolls, the iconic café owned by Roy Cropper, will be burned down in a cruel arson attack in upcoming scenes. Not only that but as the blaze spreads, it could leave poor Roy in serious danger.
It’s claimed Roy will be left fighting for his life in the incident. with the building said to be be burnt down. As the battle to save Roy commences, the legend will apparently be rushed to hospital.
But who would want to target Roy or his business, and will Roy be okay? According to sources, Roy will be seen trapped in the blaze in scenes that will air onscreen in April.
According to The Sun, it sparks questions about whether Roy was targeted and why the café was set alight. A source told the publication: “Roy’s Rolls is targeted by a mystery fires tarter who breaks in and douses the cafe with petrol whilst Roy sleeps upstairs in his flat.
“When residents spot smoke coming out of the windows, emergency services are called. As the fire rages and people realise Roy is trapped inside the race is on to get him out alive.
“Will Roy be rescued in time, and what about his precious collection of railway memorabilia and memories of Hayley? Is this the end of Roy’s Rolls as we know it, and who wanted to burn down the iconic cafe?”
The Mirror has reached out to an ITV spokesperson for comment. It comes ahead of a murder plot taking place in April that sees one of five villains killed off. Jodie Ramsey, Megan Walsh, Carl Webster, Theo Silverton and Maggie Driscoll are all at risk.
The death plot will then spark a whodunnit before fans find out who has killed them and why. Some fans already think they have worked out who the killer is and who the victim will be.
It’s left fans fearing a popular character is about to depart the show in the plot. They think Eva Price, who only came back to the show in October last year, could bow out in a killer twist.
With teacher Megan exposed for grooming young student Will for sex, Will’s stepmother Eva Price vowed she would pay for her crimes. Now, fans have wondered if Eva will kill Megan as she takes revenge, but would Eva really turn killer?
It’s the perfect place for an Easter or summer holiday, as there’s so much to see and do, and it’s very easy to get around.
Nicola Roy Multimedia content creator
12:54, 18 Mar 2026
Budapest is home to the Danube river, a stunning place to walk(Image: Yasonya via Getty Images)
A stunning European capital has been crowned one of the most walkable, making it ideal for a summer or Easter break with countless attractions to explore. Better still, it’s affordable to reach, with UK flights available from just £19 in April.
Budapest in Hungary has repeatedly featured in conversations about great holiday destinations. There’s good reason for its popularity – getting around on foot is effortless, it’s steeped in fascinating history and brilliant attractions, plus the cuisine is great . In fact, travel experts at Freetour named it the top city to visit in 2026.
The specialists explained: “If there is one city that tops every travel ranking time and time again, it’s Budapest. The Hungarian capital claimed first place across all FREETOUR.com destinations in 2025, and 2026 is shaping up to be no different.”
They continued: “It has everything a curious traveler could want: the medieval Castle Hill and the ruin bars of the Jewish Quarter, fin-de-siècle thermal baths and street food at the Great Market Hall, the misty Chain Bridge at dawn and a symphony of lights over the Danube at night. Budapest is a city where every free walking tour feels like a genuine discovery.”
Budapest often appears in lists about the most pedestrian-friendly cities globally. In Guru Walk’s rankings last year, it secured second place, with Rome claiming the number one position, reports the Express.
The professionals noted: ‘Known as the “Pearl of the Danube”, Budapest blends imperial architecture with a vibrant cultural scene.’
Two of Budapest’s main attractions – St Stephen’s Basilica and the Houses of Parliament – are conveniently located just a 15-minute stroll apart. However, if you’re not keen on exploring entirely by foot, the city boasts an efficient public transport system, complete with trams, buses and metros.
Undoubtedly, one of Budapest’s standout attractions is the Szechenyi Thermal Baths. It’s one of the largest complexes in Europe, supplied by two thermal springs, with the indoor and outdoor pools tracing their history back to 1913.
The waters are rich in health-enhancing minerals and temperatures vary from a comfortable 27°C to a warm 38°C.
After your relaxing soak, you can indulge in Budapest’s lively street food scene.
Karaván, nestled in the heart of the Party district, is a must-visit for those eager to sample local delicacies, such as Lángos, a deep-fried flatbread garnished with garlic, cheese and sour cream.
Flights to Budapest start from just £19 from Gatwick in April.
Coronation Street spoilers for next week see residents catching onto two different villains, both of whom are potential victims in the murder twist next month on the ITV soap
Coronation Street spoilers for next week see residents catching onto two different villains(Image: ITV)
Two potential murder victims take centre stage on Coronation Street next week, with their lies rumbled.
Recently viewers were told one of five villains would be killed off in April. It will be Jodie Ramsey, Carl Webster, Theo Silverton, Megan Walsh or Maggie Driscoll.
Now, new spoilers for next week could suggest it will be one of two villains. Secrets are exposed next week it seems, with motives and suspects set up for two of the five potential victims.
Theo and Megan both come under the spotlight next week, as Theo’s abusive behaviour looks set to be rumbled. In the fallout to Megan being rumbled this week, next week sees more than one resident desperate for her to face justice.
Theo places himself up there as a firm favourite to die for sure. Not only does he dash Todd’s marathon hopes in a cruel plan, but he then springs a surprise wedding on him, trying to trap him for good.
His mask soon slips though and it’s not long before a character possibly unearths his vile and abusive behaviour. So does next week place him at the top of the list of who dies in April?
Our soap insider teases: “Theo cruelly sabotages Todd’s martathon prep, before heading to the event and pretending Todd has already gone. When Todd realises he’s missed the marathon he’s gutted, and seemingly unaware of Theo’s part in it.
“Todd’s friends are disappointed too, and he fears he’s let them down. All the while, a smug Theo shows off his medal, before offering a disappointed Todd a shoulder to cry on. Seemignly Theo’s plan to reel Todd back in after their split drama has worked.”
Later in the week we see George Shuttleworth suggesting to Todd that Theo isn’t good for him. It’s clear he’s not keen and soon he’s deasperate to keep Theo on side, despite Theo’s attempts to win him back around.
Our insider said: “Theo tries to paint himself as a changed man to George and Christina. George seems taken by his claims but when Theo leaves, he admits he’s doing it so that Theo doesn’t know about his suspicions.”
Those suspicions raise though when George visits the flat and overhears Theo shouting abuse at Todd. “Theo returns from a run after more drama with Todd,” shares our insider.
“Clearly in a mood, he thinks Todd is in the bathroom and begins shouting abusive comments through the door. He’s left exposed though when George emerges from the room, having heard everything.”
So will this be the moment Theo is rumbled and could it lead to Theo being killed off? Another character whose game is well and truly up is child groomer Megan.
This week sees her exposed for abusing teen Will Driscoll, and next week his whole family, and her partner Daniel Osbourne, want to get to the bottom of what’s happened. After the news that she is pregnant but is refusing a DNA test, they want to know whether Will could be the baby’s father.
Our insider said: “Will’s dad Ben calls the family together to discuss the baby, but Will soon leaps to Megan’s defence, in denial and still trying to cover for her. Maggie loses it though, and tensions simmer with Ben hopeful that Will might attend counselling, and that he might expose what really happened with Megan.
“Towards the end of the week, Daniel urges teen Sam Blakeman to speak to the police and share everything he knows about the grooming. After all, it was Sam who initially figured out what was going on only to be threatened by teacher Megan.
“Sam is very paranoid, while it’s clear Daniel is hurt and then there’s the Driscolls who are reeling from recent events. So what are the chances that one of these characters will go too far in their bid to expose Megan, and could she be the one who dies?”
The Crown star James Murray started off his acting career on ITV soap Coronation Street but the experience left him terrified
10:34, 15 Mar 2026Updated 10:35, 15 Mar 2026
James Murray kick started his acting career in Coronation Street(Image: ITV)
James Murray has revealed why he won’t return to Coronation Street after just three episodes.
The actor shared that he featured in three episodes of the ITV soap when speaking to Alan Titchmarsh on Love Your Weekend on Sunday (March 15).
When asked to share who he played in the long-running serial drama, James told the ITV host he was Sandy the barman many years ago.
He commented: “I was Jack and Vera’s barman for about three episodes, it was a frightening experience.
“No good at the job! Thankfully, I think I was contracted for three episodes, so I was in and out, but it was so frightening because Bill Tarmey, who played Jack, was a wonderful man.
“You know how those things are filmed, it’s very quick. It’s like a sausage factory! There’s not much time for creative input from the actors, shall we say. You just stand on your mark, say your line, and we move on.
“That was my first introduction into the world of acting, screen acting. I walked into the Rovers, and I was absolutely petrified!
“The bright lights, I overlearned my lines, and I was just a mess. I was shaking and sweating.”
James recalled how Bill was polishing some glass during their scene together and noticed how nervous he was.
The actor added: “He [Bill] went, ‘You’re shaking like a leaf, son, either stop shaking or think of doing something else’.
“After that stint on Corrie, I said I don’t want to be an actor, or I don’t want to be an actor like this, because it was so frightening to me!
“Being thrown into the lion’s den, first off. I then went and did theatre and other things, but yeah, never again. My hat goes off to the way they act in those shows because it’s so quick.”
Luckily, it wasn’t enough to turn him off of acting completely as James has gone on to star in many well known shows. Recently, he appeared as Raef Lonsdale in the 2025 BBC drama series Wild Cherry, one of the more villainous characters in the show.
While speaking to Alan Titchmarsh he joked he ‘can’t remember’ the last time he didn’t play an evil character, admitting it may have something to do with his eyebrows.
Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh is available to watch on Saturdays on ITV from 9:30am
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new **Everything Gossip** website.
Coronation Street’s Megan Walsh will finally be exposed in upcoming scenes on the ITV soap, leaving Eva Price and her entire family shaken when they discover what she has been doing
Eva Price will make a shock discovery about her stepson on Coronation Street
Coronation Street‘s Megan Walsh will finally be exposed in upcoming scenes on the ITV soap. The teacher, played by Beth Nixon, has been carrying out an illicit affair with her student Will Driscoll as part of a controversial storyline on the ITV soap.
Will arrived with his family last October to move into the Rovers Return, and it was quickly established that Megan was his athletics coach but there was a lot more to it than just that. Megan eventually moved to Weatherfield, got a job at the local secondary school and has even started up a relationship with Daniel Osbourne (Rob Mallard) as a cover-up.
Megan’s flatmate Leanne also looks set to weigh in on the harrowing situation, as her own stespon Sam Blakeman (Jude Riordan) has worked out what his going on between Will and Megan, and has received multiple threats from the villainous teacher. After the bombshell scenes, this will also leave Daniel wondering where he stands as he potentially comes to realise that his entire relationship was a lie.
Just weeks ago, Corrie aired a flashforward episode that revealed that Megan is one of five potential murder victims, along with fellow villains Jodie Ramsey, Carl Webster, Maggie Driscoll, and Theo Silverton. So will this all lead to the ultimate downfall for Megan or will the teacher actually face prison time for her crimes?
Coronation Street boss Kate Brookes recently explained that she the story was a “very important” one to tell. She said: “It’s a very important story to tell and we want to be as truthful as possible. As part of that story Sam will end up getting embroiled in it all.
“Sam is semi-related to the pub family and he potentially gets wind that something’s amiss. We will see the lengths that Megan will go to manipulate Sam into keeping quiet. It’ll be massively detrimental to Sam’s wellbeing.”
Meanwhile, for actress Beth Nixon, Coronation Street marks her television debut but she had actually auditioned for other parts on the soap before landing the role of Megan. Speaking to York College, Beth shared that the casting team had seen Beth in several shows at her drama school: the Arden School of Theatre in Manchester, so she was “kind of on their radar.”
Revealing her past audition history, Beth explained: “But I’d auditioned for Corrie twice before – as a baddie both times of course – including for the role of Lauren.” Actress Cait Fitton ended up being cast as Lauren, making her debut in 2022, and has remained on the show since.
Beth added: “Then, earlier this year, my agent sent me a casting brief and explained it was for a paedophile, which is a bit crazy to play because they’re obviously not a redeemable character, so they can push it pretty far.” After sending a self-tape Beth attended a chemistry test with other actors who were being considered to play Will. She then performed a scene on the set at The Bistro – and it turned out the bosses were rather impressed with her.
Beth – who was working as a skin clinic manager before joining Corrie – said: “I was at work when my agent called me. I was upstairs as my colleague watched the desk and, when he told me I’d got it, everybody in the clinic could hear me screaming my head off and then I cried, because it’s been four years since I graduated and this is my first TV role.
“It’s been a hard time and I was really close to quitting, having a normal job and pursuing a different career, so this just came at exactly the right time and when I needed it.”
WE are just days away from St Patrick’s Day and the UK is full of events to celebrate.
Even though St Patrick’s Day falls on a Tuesday (March 17), this weekend there are a number of events you can head to soak up the celebration.
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There are a number of St Patrick’s Day events across the countryCredit: Alamy
Some cities are hosting parades and others have more family-orientated events – so here are some of the best.
Belfast St Patrick’s Day Celebrations
Of course, it wouldn’t be this list without the capital of Northern Ireland.
St Patrick’s Day celebrations are spread across several days in Belfast, with a Music Festival from March 13 to 17, Celebrations at St George’s Market on March 14 and 15 and a parade on March 17.
When it comes to the parade on Tuesday, the streets will come alive with performers, music, dance troupes and community groups.
Also on Tuesday, visitors will be able to enjoy the St Patrick’s Day Festival Village between 1pm and 4pm at Belfast Cathedral Car Park.
The village is free to enter and will boast music, dancing, food and family activities.
London St Patrick’s Day Parade
This Sunday, March 15, London will host one of the largest St Patrick’s Day parades in the country.
Starting at 12pm and running until 6pm, the parade will follow a 1.5 mile route and feature carnival performers, musicians, dancers and marching bands.
There will also be lots of celebrations in Trafalgar Square that are free for the public to enjoy.
For kids there will be arts and crafts sessions and if you get hungry there will be plenty of food stalls around.
Manchester Irish Festival
Manchester Irish Festival will take place across several days with Irish art, comedy, dancing, music, sport and theatre performances.
The parade will take place on Sunday, March 15, starting at 12pm.
It will follow a route into the city centre.
From March 12, there will be the Irish Festival Village at St Ann’s Square, with live music every day, Irish-themed pizza and pints, of course.
For example, London has a 1.5mile parade and Manchester has a festival across several daysCredit: Alamy
Leeds St. Patrick’s Day
Leeds‘ annual St Patrick’s Day celebration will be on March 15.
The day will be full of entertainment but there isn’t a parade this year.
In a statement on social media, the team said: “The Leeds St Patrick’s Day Parade committee would like to inform you of an important change to this year’s festival day.
“Due to matters out of our control, we have had to make the decision not to have floats and walkers travel the parade this year.
“This is a decision which was not made lightly and we hope to have this aspect back next year – bigger and better than ever.
“However, we will still be celebrating St Patrick’s Day in Millennium Square.
“There will be lots of entertainment and displays in the square for all to enjoy.
“It is still set to be a brilliant day – so don’t miss out.”
There won’t be a parade in Leeds this year, but there is a day full of entertainmentCredit: Alamy
Birmingham St. Patrick’s Fun Day
On March 15, there will be a St Patrick’s Family Fun Day in Birmingham.
The event will take place at the Irish Centre, starting at 12pm.
There will be entertainment, activities, food, live bands and music.
For children, there will be a lot of fun to get stuck into including a funfair and face painting.
Meanwhile, parents can peruse stalls and have a go at the tombola.
If you want to grab a bite to eat, there will be Irish sausage baps as well as Fitzgerald’s Irish Store, which sells a range of Irish products.
Tickets to the event cost £10 per person, but children under the age of 10 go free.
In Birmingham, you can join a family fun dayCredit: Alamy
Cheltenham Festival St Patrick’s Thursday
If you happen to be at Cheltenham Festival on March 12, you will get to see St Patrick’s Thursday.
As the battle for the Prestbury Cup continues, attendees can also make the most of live music across six areas.
For example, The Tumbling Paddies will perform live in The Guinness Village.
Glasgow St Patrick’s Festival Family Fun Day
In Scotland, you can head to Glasgow‘s St Patrick’s Festival on March 14.
Running from midday to 5pm, the festival on Merchant Square will include live Irish music, face painting, a balloon artist and stalls with deals on holidays in Ireland.
There will also be a number of bars and restaurants involved in the event.
Can’t make March 14? On March 17 – actual St Patrick’s Day – head to the Grosvenor Cafe in Glasgow’s West End for live music, dancers, spice bags, pints and even a special appearance from Jedward.
The soaps are lining up some big twists next week according to new spoilers, with exits teased and new discoveries across Emmerdale, EastEnders, Coronation Street and Hollyoaks
The soaps are lining up some big twists next week according to new spoilers(Image: ITV)
The soaps feature major twists next week that could impact the future of some favourite characters.
Emmerdale will air a big confession, and the fallout could lead to the exit of three characters. Coronation Street is also hinting at exits, as some secrets may be exposed and one villain teases they are leaving Weatherfield for good.
Over on EastEnders, there’s a discovery about one newcomer, and Bea takes worrying action against another Walford resident. As for Hollyoaks, there’s a sibling twist and prison breakout plan.
Finally Home and Away is lining up a reunion and some worrying health news. Ensure our latest headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source.Click here to activateor add us as your Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
Bear loses control and lies to DS Walsh that he killed Ray on purpose in a bid to protect Paddy. Paddy’s devastated, fearing his dad will get a life sentence. It leads to Paddy and Dylan agreeing to confess to their part in Ray’s death cover-up, and the events prior.
They’re told they will be charged with perverting the course of justice, and the family soon realise that finding a witness to confirm it was Ray’s intent to kill Dylan could back their self-defence claim. Elsewhere, Kim’s vulnerable with Lydia as she vows to keep her heart closed off to Graham.
Joe is fed up by Graham’s attempts to turn him off Kim, while Kim presses Joe until he makes an admission. Also next week, Jacob’s struggling with his placement and Dr. Todd’s mentorship programme but is left shattered by Dr. Todd’s brutal notes.
Kerry and Jai continue to keep their fling a secret, but Eric soon realises something could be going on. When Mary offers her advice, will he listen? Finally next week, Isaac is upset as he fears his dad Cain will die from cancer, while Cain is preoccupied in his search for farm land.
Coronation Street
Nina’s worried about Sam’s behaviour, and soon things worsen when he collapses on the pavement. He’s rushed to hospital, and when Leanne gently suggests that his exams weren’t the only reason he resorted to taking drugs, he considers confessing all.
As Sam’s family rally around him, will the walls close in on Megan? Soon, Megan’s past comes back to haunt her as a shock discovery rocks the Driscolls, and Daniel wants answers.
Lisa quizzes Kit about the attack on Mal, but he gives nothing away. When Lisa reveals a witness has come forward, Kit masks his unease before ambushing them at the station and it seems he could be exposed.
Later, Lisa reveals that Mal has regained consciousness, so Kit visits him in hospital and questions him about the attack. Some news from Adam leaves Alya forcing a smile while a data breach leaves them panicking, as residents fume. George despairs over the continuing smear campaign targeting the undertakers.
Todd’s upset to see Theo with another man, leading to Glenda urging Todd to get back on the dating scene, but how will Theo react? Later on, Theo tells Todd he’s thinking of accepting a job in Belfast as it’ll be best for both of them to have a clean break. But things take a sinister turn when he drugs Todd’s drink.
EastEnders
Peter organises a surprise for Lauren, while Max soon finds himself at loggerheads with his family and leaves. With Max away, Mark offers Lauren a business proposition with the promise of luxury cars, but she has no idea of Mark’s criminal motives.
Later, Lauren gets off to a good start as she successfully sells one of Mark’s cars, but Max is suspicious about the paperwork. Soon Callum drops some news that leads to Lauren confronting Mark.
Johnny remains distant with Linda, while she’s caught in the middle when Bea clashes with Elaine. Soon, Linda is on the receiving end of some crossed words from Max. Soon Max and Linda get closer, with Max stepping in to support her, but a shocking discovery leaves Linda reeling.
Meanwhile, when Bea’s credit card application is rejected she sets one up in Honey’s name. Later in the week, Billy, Janet and Will arrive home without Honey, and Billy’s left concerned about Bea’s obsession with his family.
Jean returns to Walford, and she and Zoe put aside their differences. Sandra arrives and is asking questions about Jasmine, with Kim and Denise discovering she is the adoptive mother of Jasmine’s twin brother Josh.
It’s not long before Josh arrives. When he finds out Zoe is also there, he insists he wants nothing to do with his mum. He does seem keen to get to know his grandfather Patrick though, while he also catches Oscar’s eye.
There’s also drama when Suki finds out about Penny and Vinny’s baby news. Penny tells Suki that she and Vinny are having their baby, with or without her blessing.
Hollyoaks
Dillon tells Vicky his plan to break Lucas out of prison so they can run away together. Later, he confides in her sister Gemma that Vicky is taking weight loss injections. Meanwhile, Rex, James and Froggy form an alliance to help Lucas, who is keen to serve his time.
Also next week, Theresa offers to help Mercedes track down her mystery new man, but is shocked by his identity. Soon, Warren drives out to the woods and opens his boot to reveal Jenson tied up.
There’s a shock when Jenson claims he’s Warren’s brother, leading to Warren attacking him before heading off to find proof. While alone, Jenson suffers an asthma attack.
Diane tells Tony she is determined to make the most of her time with her family after her cancer diagnosis. When the teens bunk off from school, Ant apologises to Trina, while Kathleen-Angel upsets him before they end up sleeping together. Ste returns from his holiday, while Dom is left hurt after being tricked by the teens and Rex struggles to open up to Ste.
Home and Away
Remi notices he’s experiencing pins and needles in his hands after a recent seizure following his brain tumour diagnosis. Eden’s devastated by some news, and soon she finds out Cash has lied to her. It’s up to Remi to tell her the truth to explain everything, before he agrees to speak with a neurosurgeon.
Marilyn shares her concerns with Alf that she could have done more to stop Leah leaving, while Leah’s furious over Justin’s ultimatum. Leah ends up staying, and she and Justin reconcile.
Mali has a warning for Lacey about Holden, while Kerrie won’t stop calling Harper before she takes a damning revenge on Tane with a drugs lie. When Tane is questioned by police, he’s aware the drugs were planted by Kerrie, but can he prove it? Also next week, Dana helps Sonny settle into the rehabilitation clinic, only for him to end their relationship.
Home and Away is available to stream from 6am weekdays, with double bill episodes airing from 6pm on 5Star.Hollyoaks is available to stream on Channel 4’s streaming service now, while it also airs Mondays to Wednesdays on E4 at 7PM.
EastEnders airs Mondays to Thursdays at 7:30pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.Emmerdale airs weeknights at 8pm on ITV1 and ITVX.
Sam Aston has played Chesney Brown on Coronation Street for several years and the star has two actor siblings who have also set foot on the cobbles
Joe Crutchley Screen Time Reporter
16:30, 06 Mar 2026Updated 16:31, 06 Mar 2026
Coronation Street Sam Aston’s real-life sibling is soap co-star and fans are gobsmacked(Image: ITV)
Sam Aston is a Coronation Street legend playing Chesney Brown and it turns out talent runs in his family.
Actor Sam shot to fame when he was just 10 years old playing Chesney on the ITV soap.
He made his debut in 2003, rocking up to the cobbles as the son of Cilla Battersby-Brown (Wendi Peters) and the half-brother of Fiz Stape (Jennie McAlpine).
Like many child stars, the actor grew up on the show and has had a series of intense storylines including being held hostage, constantly getting dumped and becoming a father of five.
Sam has gone down a treat with Corrie fans over the years. So much so, that he bagged an award of Best Newcomer at the National Television Awards in 2004.
He also picked up Best Dramatic Performance for a Young Actor at the British Soap Awards the following year.
And it turns out soap stardom runs in his family, as his brother Joseph is also a soap star.
Joseph was the second actor to play Tommy Duckworth, the grandson of iconic characters Jack and Vera Duckworth, back in 2000. Also, Sam’s other brother Thomas is an actor and has appeared in episodes of Casualty and The Bill.
What’s more, Sam’s sister Emily, also appeared on Coronation Street back in the nineties. She played Becky Palmer on the ITV soap, between 1996 and 1997 in 51 episodes. Since then, she’s gone on to star in the likes of BBC soap Doctors, This Is England ‘88 and Hollyoaks.
Reacting to Sam’s sister’s stint on Corrie, fans have been left floored. On a Corrie Facebook fan page, one person said: “Wow!! The girl that played Becky (daughter of one of Des’ girlfriends) is actually Chesneys (Sam Aston) real sister!!.”
Someone else said: “Spit of each other aint they.” A third agreed and wrote: “Now you said you can see it wow.” Another person chimed in and proclaimed: “U can tell!!!” A fifth penned: “Shes so like him.”
**For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new ** Everything Gossip ** website**
In 2023, Sam opened up on how his soap star siblings have helped him on the soap, in particular with his character being a dad-of-five. Speaking to The Mirror and other press, he said: “Because I grew up in a big family anyway, l’ve always been used to the chaos.”
He added: “I’ve got five sisters, three brothers. So I’m used to a lot of people being around in the house and children and all sorts. So it’s not as crazy as it sounds. I don’t think it’s as crazy as what it could be when you initially think there’s four babies on set.
“I think it’s harder if anything when there’s newborns and we were brand new to it. Because I’ve got two kids myself, maybe I am a bit more calm in that situation.”
Coronation Street airs Monday to Friday at 8:30pm on ITV1 and ITVX
Audrey made her debut on the cobbles back in 1979, where she was introduced as the mum of Gail Platt (Helen Worth).
The character has been involved in several huge storylines over the years, including her tumultuous love life, family drama, and mental health struggles. Audrey notably escaped serial killer Richard Hillman (Brian Capron), and was in a relationship with reformed con-man Lewis Archer (Nigel Havers), as well as battling with depression and alcoholism.
Audrey also got married to Alf Roberts (Bryan Mosley) in 1985, before his tragic death in 1999. Similar to her character, actor Sue has also been through her fair share of heartbreak, following the death of her co-star husband Mark Eden.
Mark was best known for his role as villain Alan Bradley in Corrie – a role he played from 1986 to 1989. Alan’s storyline began when he visited Weatherfield to reconcile with his long-lost daughter, Jenny (Sally Ann Matthews), following the death of her mother and his ex-wife Pat.
Alan soon moved in with Jenny and her foster mother, Rita Tanner (Barbara Knox), who he eventually fell in love with. However, the romantic bliss didn’t last very long.
Alan notably defrauded Rita by forging her signature to mortgage her house for his business, Weatherfield Security Systems. He was also abusive, and cheated on Rita with Gloria Todd (Sue Jenkins). The character’s villainous streak came to an end when he was fatally hit by a Blackpool tram while chasing Rita back in 1989.
Away from the cobbles, actor Sue claimed to have experienced love at first sight after meeting co-star Mark at a fashion party in 1983. The couple were married from 1993 until Mark’s death in 2021 at the age of 92. The actor had been living with Alzheimer’s disease “for some time”.
Tributes quickly flooded in for the beloved star, following his death. John Whiston, the former managing director of continuing drama and head of ITV Studios in the north, previously said in a statement: “We are all hugely saddened to hear of the death of Mark Eden.
“The character he played, Alan Bradley, made a real impact in the three years he was in the show, embarking on a reign of terror and clashing with just about every other character in Coronation Street. He was a consummate actor and played the role of psychotic villain to a tee, making the character both chilling and credible.
“The show owes Mark a great deal as he set the template for all the great villains to come, from Hillman to [Pat] Phelan to our latest baddie, Geoff Metcalfe. It’s a fantastic dramatic legacy. Our thoughts go out to Sue and their family and friends at this sad time.”
Audrey hasn’t been seen on screen in recent months, sparking serious concern from fans. The ITV soap offered an update on the beloved character last week.
During a recent episode (February 26), Audrey’s granddaughter, Sarah (Tina O’Brien), spoke to her mum on the phone, confirming that Audrey was on holiday. Fans will surely be devastated by the update, as they hope to see Audrey back in the salon soon.
Emmerdale airs weekday nights at 8pm on ITV1 and STV, and Coronation Street airs weekday nights at 8.30pm on ITV1 and STV as part of ITV’s new soap power hour scheduling pattern for Coronation Street and Emmerdale
For the latest showbiz, TV, movie and streaming news, go to the new Everything Gossip website
Fans of Emmerdale and Coronation Street were not impressed to hear yet again the soaps had been cancelled by ITV in favour of sports coverage, leading to a plea to bosses
10:26, 06 Mar 2026Updated 10:27, 06 Mar 2026
Fans of the soaps have once again been dealt a blow, as there’s no Emmerdale or Coronation Street on Friday(Image: ITV)
Fans of the soaps have once again been dealt a blow, as there’s no Emmerdale or Coronation Street on Friday on ITVX or ITV1.
The soaps have once again been shelved by ITV in favour of sports coverage. It’s sparked fury amongst soap fans who had been promised five days a week of the soaps from January.
Not only that, but most weeks the ‘missing episodes’ never end up being replaced, leaving fans annoyed. This time, it’s the rugby coverage again, while soon it will no doubt be more football that takes the shows off air.
Time and time again viewers have pleaded with bosses to make a change so that fans do not miss out. A suggestion was that the episodes could still drop on ITVX, or sports could be moved elsewhere given ITV as a number of channels.
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Taking to social media, fans called out the move once more annoyed that another Friday would see both soaps dropped in favour of sports. A fan said: “What again !! This is happening way too often.”
Another agreed: “Why can’t rugby go on ITV3?” as a third said: “Exactly! Or they could at least still put the Corrie episode on ITVX.” Another fan said: “This really annoys me when this happens.”
A fan then asked: “When will the missing episodes of Corrie and Emmerdale due to sport on Friday be shown?” The answer is never, as the filming of the episodes would have been planned around the ‘cancellations’, while in future there will no doubt be episodes airing on different days.
It’s happened quite often since January, with fans having fumed about it before this week too. A fan said: “Why can’t the footy and rugby be put on another channel, we always miss out , so unfair!!!”
A fan added: “Never mind the loyal supporters of soaps so just take them off for sport.” Another fan commented: “They’re at it again taking Corrie off two nights this week and not making the time up Why oh why do they that? ITV has four channels plus ITVX so why not put football on one of their other channels and leave Corrie alone?” Other fans disagreed with the comments, suggesting it wasn’t a big deal, but soap fans would beg to differ!
Coronation Street legend Beverley Callard, who was diagnosed with the early stages of breast cancer, says she is trying to “disguise what she is going through” to appear on a red carpet
21:45, 03 Mar 2026Updated 21:53, 03 Mar 2026
Corrie legend Beverley Callard has admitted her fear of red carpets has only got worse since her cancer diagnosis(Image: Instagram)
The soap legend has been keeping fans up to date regularly, but after taking some much-needed time away from social media to spend time with her husband, she returned with another candid post on Tuesday evening, where she sadly explained she is trying to “disguise” any signs of her illness as she prepares to step in front of the cameras again to promote a project.
Beverley, who has been married to Jon McEwan since 2010, said: “Hi. An update. I’ve not posted for the last couple of days because to be honest, I’m just really tired, I’m rubbish at the moment. But also, a lot of your messages have been so great and lots of them said ‘Just take a bit of time for you!’ So I’ve done that and it was good for Jon and I just to have some quiet time because, obviously, it gets to him, just as much as me.
“Anyway, today has been a good day. I’ve had more energy and I actually went and had my nails done today, which was quite nice. But I was exhausted when I came back not doing anything!
“Another thing I wanted to talk about was…I have to, hopefully, go back to work on Sunday and Monday, just for two days but it’s to do promotion for a job that I filmed last year, a few months ago and I’ve got the most worrying thing. It’s a bit of a red carpet do and anybody who knows me knows I hate those things.”
The star, who recently signed up to appear in the Irish soap Fair City and was preparing to film her first scenes when doctors informed her she had cancer, insisted that she “loves” everything about being an actress apart from the publicity side of things and admitted that her fears have got “even worse” since her diagnosis.
She said: “I love my job, I love learning lines, I love creating a character but standing posing on a red carpet is my worst nightmare. But now [it’s] even worse because I feel lopsided.
“I’ve just had to have a lady come to alter a dress that I’m thinking about wearing, and try and disguise what I’m going through at the moment so I’m even more nervous about it.
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“I know loads of people will think ‘Ooh, red carpet, and getting all dressed up…’ I prefer being dressed like this, but there you go! I’m nervous and anxious about that, and I’m trying to prepare.” Beverley
“The other thing is that I’ve got the hospital again in the morning and hopefully I will find out tomorrow if I have to have a second procedure, that’s at 9am, so I’ll know more about where I stand then but I’m sending loads of love, and thank you for the love you’re sending me.”
The update comes just days after Beverley tearfully revealed she was struggling following her surgery. The Two Pints of Lager and a Packet of Crisps star told her followers: “Full disclosure, it’s a week today since my operation and I woke up this morning and I put yesterday’s clothes on – which were dropped on the floor last night when I went to bed.
I I’ve not cleaned my teeth, I’ve not combed my hair. I can’t answer my phone because if somebody says a kind word to me, I just cry.”
And I’m so absolutely, absolutely rubbish today and I’ve been like that all day. I’m really tired, I keep feeling a bit queasy but I’ve no idea why. And I just thought, ‘oh well I’m not going to post anything today because I don’t want to make people feel miserable’ – but maybe you are feeling the same.”
If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Breast Cancer Support.
Argentine President Javier Mile’s administration has launched a new U.S. dollar bond aimed at raising up to $2 billion. Photo by Matias Martin Campaya/EPA
BUESOS AIRES, Feb. 27 (UPI) — Argentina’s government took a new step in its strategy to meet upcoming dollar-denominated debt maturities without again relying on international markets. In a challenging financial context, President Javier Milei’s administration launched a new U.S. dollar bond aimed at raising up to $2 billion.
The goal is to get ahead of payments scheduled for July, when about $4.2 billion in private loans come due. Instead of seeking funds on Wall Street or using the swap line negotiated with the United States, the Economy Ministry chose to raise those dollars domestically.
The decision comes amid a recent increase in Argentina’s sovereign risk, an indicator that reflects how investors perceive a nation’s ability to repay its debt and that, when it rises, makes external borrowing more expensive.
With that roadmap, the economic team faced the first test of the new instrument on Wednesday. In the initial issuance, it placed $150 million at an annual rate of 5.89%, below what market analysts had estimated.
The response exceeded official expectations. The Finance Secretariat reported receiving bids totaling $868 million, nearly six times the amount ultimately taken by the government. For the government, that level of interest confirms there is demand for Argentine dollar debt even in a volatile environment.
The bond, which can only be subscribed to and paid for in U.S. dollars, will be included in the regular biweekly auctions alongside peso-denominated securities. In each initial auction, up to $150 million will be offered, with the possibility of expanding by another $100 million in a second round the following day, until the planned program is completed.
Identified as BONAR 2027 or AL27 in some markets, the security will mature on Oct. 29, 2027, after Argentina’s 2027 presidential election. It offers a 6% nominal annual rate, with monthly interest payments, and will repay principal in a single installment at maturity.
The initiative comes at a key moment for Argentina, which faces heavy foreign-currency commitments midyear. In that context, securing dollar financing without turning abroad becomes central to organizing the payment schedule and maintaining investor confidence.
Financial adviser Gastón Lentini, founder of consulting firm Doctor de tus Finanzas, told UPI that the dollar bond launched by Argentina has sparked strong interest among local investors.
“Unlike almost any bond issued before, this one pays interest every month,” he said.
In practice, this means that if someone invests $10,000, they will receive $50 each month until October 2027, when the bond matures and the invested principal is returned.
Economist Elena Alonso, co-founder of consultancy Esmerald Capital, noted that anyone can invest in this bond.
“The minimum amount is one dollar. Anyone who has never invested before only needs to open an investment account,” she said.
Lentini explained that in July the government faces a debt payment of about $4.2 billion, which includes interest and principal repayments on certain bonds.
“The limited level of international reserves and restricted access to dollars forces the government to be creative in raising the necessary funds and meeting payments,” he added.
Regarding the decision to finance domestically instead of going to international markets, the specialist said the current sovereign risk level would require Argentina to offer rates above 9% if it turned to foreign investors.
“Taking advantage of the restrictions that still exist on taking foreign currency out of the country, the economy minister is managing to finance with Argentines’ own dollars at a rate close to 6%, which is an achievement for the government,” he said.
On the currency swap line with the United States, Lentini said it will not be necessary. According to him, the combination of agro-industrial exports, oil, gas, minerals and incentives from the RIGI program allows the country to gather enough dollars to meet its obligations.
“The swap line serves as an additional backstop, but the strategy of paying with its own money strengthens investor confidence in respect for contracts,” he added.
Finally, Lentini said it would be positive for sovereign risk to decline to facilitate a debt rollover — a restructuring or refinancing of maturities — though if that does not happen, he does not see a risk of default this year, noting that Argentina is one of the few countries in the world with a surplus.
Alonso agreed that resorting to the swap line will not be necessary, as the country’s dollar reserves are growing. She also noted that, for the first time in years, private debt issuances and repurchase agreements with banks helped cover maturities.
“The swap line with the United States remains available as a backstop, but the government seeks to build credibility by using its own resources first,” she said.
