EastEnders actress reveals she’s forced to use food banks after being ripped off by accountant
Cheryl Fergison, known for her role as Heather Trott on the long-running British television drama EastEnders, experienced significant financial hardship following a fraudulent act by her accountant. The actress, 60, was compelled to utilize food banks to manage expenses after discovering a substantial tax bill of approximately £500,000.
Financial Fallout for a Familiar Face
Fergison, who appeared on EastEnders from 2007 to 2012, revealed she needed assistance two years ago and again more recently. Despite earning a six-figure salary during her time on the show, she found herself in a precarious financial situation due to the actions of her former accountant.
The core of the problem stemmed from the accountant’s failure to file or pay Fergison’s taxes, despite providing her with what appeared to be legitimate documentation. According to Fergison, the accountant misrepresented having submitted the necessary tax information to HMRC (Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs), while allegedly misappropriating the funds.
HMRC ultimately held Fergison responsible for the unpaid taxes, resulting in a loss between £400,000 and £500,000. She described a situation where she deposited a large paycheck only to withdraw it to cover the unexpected tax liability, leaving her in a continuing cycle of financial recovery.
Fergison openly discussed her experience with utilizing social services, stating, “I tell people to use services when you need them.” She also acknowledged having claimed benefits during periods of unemployment, recognizing the necessity of accessing available support. She further noted the unpredictable nature of income for actors, describing it as coming in “spits and spurts.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused Cheryl Fergison’s financial difficulties?
Cheryl Fergison’s financial difficulties were caused by an accountant who did not file or pay her taxes, and allegedly took the money instead.
How much money did Cheryl Fergison lose as a result of the accountant’s actions?
Cheryl Fergison lost between £400,000 and £500,000 due to the unpaid taxes and the accountant’s fraudulent activity.
Has Cheryl Fergison sought assistance from social services?
Yes, Cheryl Fergison has used food banks and claimed benefits during periods of unemployment to help manage her expenses.
Looking ahead, Fergison may continue to navigate the complexities of rebuilding her financial stability. This proves possible she will pursue legal avenues to recover the lost funds, though the outcome of such efforts remains uncertain. Her experience could also lead to increased scrutiny of financial advisors within the entertainment industry, and potentially, greater awareness among performers regarding the importance of independent tax verification.