Michael Le Vell is taking a break from ‘Coronation Street’ to battle his drink and drug demons.
The 49-year-old actor, who was cleared of 12 child sex abuse charges last year but admitted on Sunday (02.03.14) that he had turned to cocaine in the run up to the trial, met with ITV bosses yesterday (04.03.14) and is said to be seeking "professional help" after making the admission.
A spokesman for ITV said: "Coronation Street and Michael Le Vell have mutually agreed that he will take a break from the programme whilst he seeks professional help for personal issues."
Michael, who plays car mechanic Kevin Webster in the soap, insists he has only snorted cocaine twice in his life – once before his trail in September and a second time after he was cleared of rape and sex offences against a teenager.
He re-joined the cast of ‘Coronation Street’ six weeks ago and will return on screen on March 21, featuring in episodes until the end of April, but TV bosses have already started writing him out of the show again.
Michael has previously decided against entering a treatment facility but friends believe it is now his only option.
A ‘Coronation Street’ source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "We are giving him time to get the help he wants but he has not decided whether that involved rehab.
"That will be his personal choice. There are lots of options. It is about what he feels is right for his situation.
"This is someone who has been through a hell of an experience."
Before the decision was made for him to take a break, Michael said: "I know what is coming and what can I do? I am not denying it. When you get caught you have hold your hands up.
"But believe me I am not a drug addict or a regular user."
Michael Le Vell taking break from Coronation Street
