Stars from Coronation Street and Emmerdale have reportedly threatened to strike over sweeping pay cuts. Actors from the soap operas have sought assistance from the acting union Equity after receiving an email notification that they will be filming fewer scenes and consequently earning less, with some suggesting they could forfeit up to a sixth of their yearly income under what has been termed a "pay-as-you-play" agreement. The union is now reportedly considering a ballot over potential strike action.

An insider revealed to The Sun on Sunday newspaper: "An email went out from ITV management telling 140-odd actors and their agents simultaneously that all new contracts are being cut by a sixth from August. It's caused uproar. There was no consultation. They effectively told the stars to 'take it or leave it'.

"This is a major crisis. The actors and actresses of both Corrie and Emmerdale are furious. Some have been in tears and are worrying about paying their bills."

One cast member has reached out to Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy regarding the decision, and she is anticipated to also engage with Equity as she is "very concerned" about the development.

It is believed that some of the longest-serving cast members will be safeguarded due to their older contracts.

Salaries range from £250,000 for the highest earners to approximately £40,000 to £80,000 for newcomers, who are on pay-per-episode contracts with a guaranteed minimum number of appearances.

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ITV has confirmed the implementation of changes, with Equity stating they are "supporting members across ­continuing dramas at ITV in relation to decisions made regarding contractual terms".

The announcement of the pay cut comes just days after ITV revealed another alteration, one that will favour Emmerdale and Coronation Street actors as they will be permitted to take brief hiatuses from the soaps to participate in pantomimes for the first time.

An ITV spokesperson informed Radio Times: "We've agreed to release a few of the actors from Emmerdale and Coronation Street to appear in pantomime this year.

"We've been considering this for some time and with ample notice, we've been able to release the actors for a limited period."

This confirmation follows the news that Bradley Riches will be taking a temporary leave from his role as Lewis Barton to portray Peter Pan in The Further Adventures of Peter Pan: The Return of Captain Hook at the Sunderland Empire from December.

The Heartstopper actor - who joined the cast of Emmerdale in May of the previous year - expressed in a statement: "I'm absolutely delighted to be returning to panto and especially to be playing Peter Pan again. It's such an iconic and magical role.

"There's nothing quite like the energy of a live audience at Christmas, and I can't wait to be at the Sunderland Empire. It's going to be a brilliant festive season – I'm so excited to get flying!".