Shane Richie, the 62-year-old EastEnders actor known for playing Alfie Moon, has reportedly split from his wife Christine after nearly 20 years of marriage. The couple, who wed in 2007, are said to have finalised their divorce on July 23, just days before Richie was arrested for drink-driving at a petrol station in Harlow, Essex, according to The Sun.
Divorce Finalised Before Arrest
Christine, 47, confirmed the relationship had ended when approached at the family's £2 million home, as reported by The Sun. A source close to the couple said Christine was 'at the end of her tether with Shane' and had 'had enough'. The insider added: 'The divorce was her decision, and she pursued it after talking it through with relatives. She had put up with a lot over the years and has had a really hard time of things lately.'
The separation was not due to 'one specific incident' but rather 'a build-up of things', according to the source. However, Christine 'did not take the decision lightly' and has chosen not to 'boot' Shane out, instead opting to 'be a grown-up about it'. The source noted: 'She still has a lot of love for him but decided they could not go on as husband and wife. They have three children together, so that is her main concern.'
Background and Previous Comments
Shane and Christine have three children together, in addition to Shane's two sons, Shane Jr and Jake, from his first marriage to Coleen Nolan (1990-1999). Shane had previously spoken warmly about meeting Christine in 2001, describing it as one of the happiest moments of his life. During his I'm A Celebrity stint, he recalled locking eyes with her at a pub and being introduced by friends after a panto performance. He said: 'At the moment I went, "I've just met my future wife".'
Arrest and Court Appearance
On July 31, footage emerged of a row Shane had with staff at a Tesco garage. Shane, real name Shane Roche, was driving his white Hyundai with what appeared to be a flat tyre. The footage, obtained by The Sun, showed Shane growing irritated and swearing at employees after they warned him to stop vaping on the forecourt. E-cigarette in hand, he told them, 'I don't give a f**k,' explaining that it was 'not smoking, it's a vape'. The manager called the police, telling them he had grown 'aggressive'. An officer escorted him to a police car, where the footage cut off. Shane was subsequently arrested.
In the aftermath, a source described his behaviour as 'extraordinary' and 'stupid'. The workers reportedly did not know who Shane was initially but recognised him once police identified him. Shane, who is currently taking a break from EastEnders along with his on-screen wife Jessie Wallace, was later charged and is due to appear before Colchester Magistrates' Court on September 9. Reps for Shane Richie have been contacted for comment.
