FORMER EastEnders star Aaron Sidwell admits “it’s hard to keep smiling” as he fears he won’t earn any money this year.
The 31-year-old said he had “fallen through the cracks” amid the coronavirus pandemic.
Aaron – who is best known for playing Steven Beale on the BBC soap – said he is desperately worried about his finances as a dad of two.
He told fans: “It’s hard to keep smiling when everything I’ve worked so hard to build for 13 years could be taken away because I had three successful financial years.
“I could, quite seriously, earn £0 in 12 months. #selfemployed #fallenthroughthecracks #fatheroftwo.”
The kind-hearted actor has been offering lonely people to message him as he vows to help those struggling in isolation.
But last night Aaron admitted his personal problems caused by theatres and TV production shutting down amid the pandemic.
One fan said: “This is awful. I know it’s not the solution but please shout if you need something.”
Another added: “Same problem here. Not in the arts, but can’t claim anything. Zero.”
Millions of self-employed workers are relying on the government to cover their income during the coronavirus crisis – but the help is due to end this month.
Under the self-employment income support scheme (SEISS) self-employed workers can claim up to £7,500 to help cover costs if they’re unable to work because of the pandemic.
But the scheme has been criticised for excluding limited company directors.
Aaron was officially divorced from wife Grace in 2017 following a four-year battle.
He had married long-term girlfriend Grace Isted on April 18, 2009 but they separated in 2013.
In 2009, they had their first daughter, Matilda, while three years after their little girl Isla was born.
He initially feared he wouldn’t be able to see them in lockdown after a government blunder caused confusion.
Aaron is now engaged to girlfriend Tricia Adele Turner.
The actor played Steven Beale in the BBC One soap on and off until September 2017.
