Coronation Street star Simon Gregson takes extended break from show

Coronation Street actor Simon Gregson has played Steve McDonald since 1989.

Coronation Street star Simon Gregson is taking an extended break from the show for personal reasons, it has been announced.

The actor, who plays Steve McDonald,is having a third child with wife Emma and is expected to be off the screen for a number of months.

Simon Gregson and his wife Emma Gleave announced that they are expecting a third child in May. Credit: Twitter/Simon Gregson

It is not known when the 40-year-old - who has played the six-time married pub landlord since 1989 - will return to the show.

It follows after the announcement that Coronation's Street's current producer, Stuart Blackburn, will leave the role to work on other drama projects within ITV.

He will be replaced by Emmerdale producer Kate Oates, who will join in the new year.

Blackburn will remain at the helm for the live episode on Wednesday, which celebrates ITV's 60th birthday.