Coronation Street star James Burrows is working as a builder specializing in driveways and landscaping, according to reports published by The Sun. The actor, who portrayed Ali Neeson on the ITV soap opera from 2018 to 2020, established a building company in 2024 and promotes his trade on social media after stepping away from the cobbles six years ago.
Actor James Burrows Adapts to Industry Dips With Construction Business
Despite landing roles in high-profile television dramas including Happy Valley, Silent Witness, and the Apple TV+ series Hijack alongside Idris Elba, Burrows has embraced manual labor during quiet periods between acting jobs. According to a source speaking to The Sun, “James is a talented actor and had huge success but he’s a jobbing actor ultimately and has a family to provide for.” The insider added, “He’s got no problem taking on building work during quiet times between acting jobs. He’s not afraid of hard work.”
Burrows previously addressed his departure from Coronation Street in a 2023 interview with Metro, explaining that the role of Ali Neeson “wasn’t really for me personally hence why I left” and admitting he grew “bored of playing the same character.” His character’s dramatic tenure included a major storyline where Ali was revealed as the biological son of Michelle Connor after being switched at birth.
Did you know? James Burrows appeared opposite Idris Elba in the Apple TV+ series Hijack before focusing on his landscaping and driveway construction business.
ITV Contract Changes Impact Long-Running Soap Cast
The actor’s career pivot arrives amid behind-the-scenes turmoil at ITV. According to reports by The Sun, Coronation Street stars expressed fury in February after learning they would face harsh contract changes involving a drastic reduction in guaranteed episodes offered by network bosses. An insider told the publication, “The way things are being handled by ITV bosses is appalling, and some big stars are talking about walking away altogether.”
Long-serving cast members remain protected by older contracts, but newer arrivals face greater instability. Another source noted, “Many feel ITV is bending the rules for some favoured stars… while others are being hung out to dry and are prepared to walk if necessary.” Reports indicate that prominent soap actors affected by the adjustments include Tina O’Brien, Lucy Fallon, Dame Maureen Lipman, Catherine Tyldesley, and Alison King from Coronation Street, alongside Emmerdale cast members Amy Walsh, Ryan Hawley, and Danny Miller.
Frequently Asked Questions
What role did James Burrows play on Coronation Street?
James Burrows played Ali Neeson on Coronation Street from 2018 to 2020.
What other TV shows has James Burrows appeared in?
Aside from his soap opera work, Burrows has appeared in Happy Valley, Silent Witness, and the Apple TV+ series Hijack.
Why did James Burrows start working as a builder?
According to sources cited by The Sun, Burrows takes on building and landscaping work during quieter periods between acting jobs to provide for his family.
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