Thursday, October 1, 2026 - EastEnders star Shane Richie has been banned from driving for six months after admitting to a speeding offence, with the actor telling a court that persistent attention from photographers contributed to the incident.
Richie, 62, was caught driving at 35mph in a 30mph zone on Reigate Hill on March 15. He pleaded guilty and was fined £500, with additional costs and a victim surcharge bringing the financial penalties to £820.
Richie told the court that photographers had repeatedly followed him between the EastEnders studios, his home and local areas, saying the media had been “constantly baiting” him for a reaction.
He stressed that the media attention was not an excuse for speeding but said it was a factor in why he accelerated on the road. The actor is also facing a separate drink-driving allegation, which he denies; that case is scheduled for trial in November 2027.
The driving ban now adds another major disruption for the actor as attention remains on his personal and legal affairs. Richie, widely known for playing Alfie Moon in EastEnders, has acknowledged responsibility for the speeding offence while raising concerns about the pressure created by intense media scrutiny.
The latest court decision puts his driving privileges on hold for six months and brings renewed public attention to the actor’s situation.
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