Michelle Collins fears young actors will leave the theatre industry due to the coronavirus lockdown.
The 58-year-old actress has lent her support to Equity’s Benevolent Fund, which is currently raising money to support young theatre actors, many of whom are facing an uncertain future amid the pandemic.
She explained: "It’s a misconception that everyone thinks they all live in huge houses, they all drive round in their flash cars … and, you know, they don’t. Gone are those days, sadly.
"This is the UK, this isn’t Hollywood. And I’ve done a lot of plays in London, working with a lot of young actors who are doing the shows at night and they’re working in the day to supplement their income. They work in hospitality, and now there is no hospitality.
"We’re hearing every day that another theatre is closing down, another theatre is struggling. My agent told me that in the theatre, things aren’t going to get back to normal until next spring."
A host of big-name stars have come out in support of the Benevolent Fund, including the likes of Sir Ian McKellen, Sir Derek Jacobi and Lesley Manville.
Michelle is eager to ensure the theatre industry doesn’t experience a talent drain due to the pandemic, which has had a huge financial impact on the sector.
Speaking on ‘Good Morning Britain’, she added: "Everybody just really, really wants to help – particularly us older, more experienced actors.
"I really worry we will lose young actors, they will leave the industry because they’ll become disillusioned and they won’t be able to make it financially viable."
Michelle has created a campaign called #FortheLoveofArts, which is raising money for Equity’s Benevolent Fund.
But the former ‘EastEnders’ actress admits more financial support is needed due to the scale of the crisis.
She told The Stage: "To give someone an opportunity is what this is about.
"I do worry about this industry, and the young talent who are not from privileged backgrounds who don’t have people helping them. It worries me they will all leave the business."