James Burrows, an actor recognized for his role as Ali Neeson on the long-running soap opera Coronation Street, has revealed a significant career shift. Despite having secured acting roles in popular television series such as Hijack, Happy Valley, and Silent Witness, Burrows has established a business as a builder. He founded a company in 2024 specializing in driveways and landscaping, actively promoting his work through social media platforms like Facebook.
A Diversified Career Path
Burrows portrayed the character Ali Neeson on Coronation Street from 2018 to 2020. Following his departure from the soap, he has continued to pursue acting opportunities, appearing in notable productions. His credits include a role opposite Idris Elba in the Apple TV+ series Hijack, as well as appearances in the critically acclaimed dramas Happy Valley and Silent Witness. This demonstrates a continued engagement with the acting profession, even as he ventures into a new trade.
Sources close to the actor suggest that this career diversification is a practical approach to balancing professional aspirations with personal responsibilities. An insider commented to The Sun that Burrows is a “jobbing actor ultimately and has a family to provide for.” The same source added that he “has no problem taking on building work during quiet times between acting jobs. He’s not afraid of hard work.” This perspective highlights a pragmatic attitude towards maintaining a stable income and supporting his family, regardless of the industry.
Reasons for Leaving Coronation Street
James Burrows previously shared his motivations for leaving Coronation Street in 2023. He explained to Metro that the role of Ali Neeson “wasn’t really for me personally” and that he was becoming “bored of playing the same character.” This suggests a personal desire for new challenges and a departure from a role that no longer fulfilled him creatively.
During his tenure on the popular soap, Burrows’s character was involved in significant storylines. Ali Neeson was revealed to be the biological son of Michelle Connor, a plot twist stemming from a birth switch involving her other son, Ryan. Ali’s arrival in Weatherfield as an adult, long after the revelation of his parentage, added a complex dynamic to his character’s integration into the established narrative.
Industry Context: Actor Earnings and Contracts
Burrows’s career move occurs against a backdrop of reported changes within the television acting industry, particularly concerning contract negotiations and pay structures. Recent reports have indicated that some actors on Coronation Street and its sister soap Emmerdale may be facing reduced guaranteed episode counts and potential pay cuts. These changes, allegedly implemented by ITV bosses, have reportedly caused discontent among some cast members.
According to The Sun, these alterations to contracts, which were communicated to stars in February, have led to concerns about job security and income stability. While long-standing cast members might be protected by existing contracts, newer additions to the shows could be more significantly impacted. Reports suggest that some actors feel there is an uneven playing field, with preferential treatment potentially being given to certain favored stars, while others are left feeling vulnerable.
This industry climate, characterized by evolving contract terms and financial considerations, may further underscore the appeal of diversifying income streams for actors. Burrows’s decision to establish a building business can be seen not only as a personal choice but also as a strategic move in a profession that often involves periods of uncertainty between acting engagements.
A New Chapter
James Burrows’s transition from a well-known television actor to a builder specializing in driveways and landscaping showcases a remarkable adaptability. His continued involvement in high-profile acting projects alongside his new venture indicates a multifaceted approach to his career. The actor’s willingness to embrace different forms of work underscores a commitment to resilience and providing for his family, navigating the often unpredictable landscape of the entertainment industry with a practical and industrious spirit.
