ITV bosses 'to slash 10% of cast' at two MAJOR soaps amid 'brutal' budget woes
ITV chiefs are reportedly planning sweeping cast reductions across their two premier soaps, with proposals to cut one in ten performers as part of new budget-slashing initiatives.
Both Coronation Street and Emmerdale may also witness fewer scenes per episode as ITV seeks to trim an additional £15 million from its overall spending, according to The Sun.
The broadcaster's earnings have allegedly plummeted by 44 per cent to £99 million during the first six months of the year, sparking a fresh drive to curb production expenses.
Insiders suggest bosses are now pressing soap creators to reduce their escalating costs, with cast sizes being a primary target for scrutiny.
Coronation Street presently features 84 regular cast members, whilst Emmerdale boasts 70, reports the Express.
An insider revealed: "It's brutal. We've known it was on the cards for a while, but they're really cranking it up now and it's across the soaps.
"They're looking to save millions and Corrie and Emmerdale are the obvious places. They're very expensive shows.
"Many who have been there for a long time are reliant on their income staying as it is.
"The amount of cast has spiralled out of control and focusing on dialogue, not action, could also save money."
Industry sources have also hinted that the number of scenes per episode - currently averaging around 20 - might be reduced to lower filming expenses.
Fewer personalities could also feature in individual episodes to help maintain tighter budgets.
While some long-standing cast members are on full-time contracts with salaries, most are paid per episode, which means that reducing screen time or overall scenes could significantly cut costs.
These proposed changes come as ITV makes cuts across its daytime schedule. Good Morning Britain, Lorraine, This Morning and Loose Women have all reportedly been affected, with hundreds of staff being made redundant in recent months.
In response to reports of soap cast reductions, an ITV spokesperson stated: "This is complete speculation."
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