BBC Actor Robert Glenister Shares Financial Struggles, Collapses on Stage

Actor Robert Glenister, known for his roles in popular BBC dramas such as Spooks and Sherwood, has opened up about his severe financial difficulties that led to a distressing collapse during a performance. He revealed that he had to remortgage his home due to a lengthy and arduous legal battle with HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC), which he described as “one of the worst times” of his life.

Speaking in an interview, the 65-year-old actor recounted the emotional toll of his financial ordeal, which he claimed stemmed from what he perceived as unjust requirements for backdated payments related to his National Insurance (NI) contributions. Glenister lost a tribunal case against HMRC, and the stress of the situation culminated in a terrifying incident where he blacked out on stage in London’s West End.

Financial Battle and Health Issues

Glenister expressed ongoing feelings of anger regarding the situation, stating, “The legal battle with HMRC was probably one of the worst times in my life. It carried on for years and was horrendous.” He highlighted the unfairness of retrospective changes in tax law, which he believes should have been communicated more clearly. The actor was reportedly left with a staggering debt of approximately £150,000 after being classified as an employee rather than a freelancer, a decision affecting around 60 actors who found themselves owing significant sums in backdated taxes.

During his struggles, Glenister experienced a significant decline in his mental health. He noted, “It took a toll. There wasn’t a day that went by over the course of four to five years that I wasn’t thinking about it.” This prolonged stress led to two incidents of fainting while performing, prompting him to take time off to recuperate. “I just thought: ‘I can’t do this,'” he recalled, describing how the fear of another similar episode continues to haunt him.

Concerns Over Industry Perceptions

Despite common assumptions that actors in television are financially secure, Glenister emphasized that this is not universally true. He explained that while some actors may be well-off, many struggle with financial pressures, particularly when faced with unexpected tax liabilities. He remarked, “I had to remortgage the house,” and expressed concern that he may need to sell it in the coming years because he cannot afford the payments.

Glenister’s situation is not unique; his brother, Philip Glenister, also faced similar challenges. Last year, The Telegraph reported on the difficulties encountered by both actors and others in the industry due to retrospective changes in tax regulations. The repercussions of these changes have sparked discussions about fairness and transparency within the system.

Reflecting on his experiences, Glenister concluded that while he has no issue with tax law changes, he believes it is crucial for such modifications to be communicated effectively to avoid retrospective implications. “It’s not fair,” he stated, calling for a more equitable approach to tax regulations affecting performers.