Coronation Street's Steve Mcdonald star reveals hidden battle and says 'it makes me upset'
manchestereveningnews.co.ukCoronation Street legend Simon Gregson has opened up about coming to terms with his mental health struggles and told how it 'makes him upset' to think about how his own children would cope with being thrust into the spotlight at the same age he was.
The actor attended The Kingsway School in Stockport, where he was scouted for the role of Steve. His first appearance in Corrie aired on December 6, 1989, when he was just 15-years-old alongside on-screen twin brother Andy Mcdonald, played by Nicholas Cochrane.
The pair played the rebellious teenagers who caused mayhem to their neighbours. Simon has since grown up in the public eye after remaining on the show while fellow actor Nicholas, 49, was forced to leave the soap alongside other notable characters when a new producer arrived in 1997. READ MORE: Coronation Street's Kit star on who gives him his 'comeuppance' as Gary Windass link teased READ MORE: Read more of our Coronation Street stories here Simon, now 49, was initially credited under his real name - Simon Alan Gregory - but later adopted the stage name of 'Gregson' once he was old enough to join Equity, which is the trade union for British actors.
He opted for Gregson as there was already a member with his real name, and it has stuck ever since. But away from the ITV soap's set, as years went on, Simon started suffering panic attacks and anxiety as he struggled to handle his fame.
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