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Coronation Street star died on benefits as 'virtual recluse' after acting career

Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. More info Len Fairclough actor from Coronation Street, Peter Adamson, passed away at 72 in his Bury home back in 2002, living as a "virtual recluse" after his acting career ended in the '80s. He had famously played Len for 1,730 episodes on Corrie, from 1961 until 1983, marking the end of his acting endeavours when he faced accusations of indecently assaulting two eight year old girls while working as a swimming instructor at Haslingden Baths. Though cleared of charges at Burnley Crown Court, his subsequent actions caused controversy with ITV authorities. Adamson sold his story to The Sun during a period of intoxication and seemed to confess in a garbled discussion. His interview included: "I am totally guilty of everything the police said. But what I hope you will print - there was no sexual intent." READ MORE - Princess Diana's nickname for Harry and why she thought 'he'd be a better king' READ MORE - World's 'friendliest country' to make tourists pay more than locals in restaurants He received £110,000 for the exposé. This marked the downturn of Adamson's fortunes, culminating in his dismissal from the television network, his exit from the soap, and an unsuccessful attempt to reinvent himself in Canada before facing bankruptcy in 1991, reports the Express. (Image: ITV) (Image: Getty) Once enjoying a yearly Corrie wage of £10,000—roughly £190,000 today—he eventually fell into a modest life in rented accommodation, resorting to state benefits when acting roles dried up. Adamson passed away whilst on benefits, but this wasn't his first brush with financial strife. The actor was known for his heavy drinking on set and by the late 1960s, he had racked up a hefty debt to Inland Revenue, leading to his suspension from Corrie in 1969 due to his alcoholism. The legal costs from his trial only added to his financial troubles, and when his wife Jean passed away shortly after the trial, Adamson's situation deteriorated further. His final roles included radio acting gigs and a West End performance in Dial M for Murder, as well as a role in Vanburgh's The Relapse in 1988. The actor left behind two sons when he passed away in 2002.