Shane Richie has pleaded not guilty to a charge of drink-driving.
The EastEnders actor, 62, appeared via video link under his real name, Shane Roche, at Colchester Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday (September 9).
He is accused of driving a white Hyundai while over the legal alcohol limit on Church Langley Way in Harlow, Essex, on July 29.
Vladimir Silea, prosecuting, said: "Police attended a Tesco petrol station in Church Langley Way at 11.15pm on July 29 where Richie was arrested and taken to Harlow police station."
Prosecutor Vladimir Silea said officers "commenced the drink and drug driving procedure" at the station, and a breath test recorded 65 micrograms of alcohol per 100 millilitres of breath.
The legal limit is 35 micrograms.
During the hearing, Mr Richie confirmed his name, date of birth and address, and entered a not guilty plea.
He temporarily dropped off the video call but apologised to the judge when he reconnected, saying: "Sorry, I’m in a hotel up north."
Deputy District Judge Christopher Maynard granted Mr Richie bail until November 17, 2027, when he will stand trial at the same court.
At the end of the hearing, Mr Richie said: "Take care, bye bye," before disconnecting from the video link.
Mr Richie's solicitor has issued a statement.
Raj Chada, head of criminal defence at Hodge, Jones & Allen, said: "My client is not commenting at this time because criminal proceedings are active.
"We ask for his privacy to be respected while the court process takes its course."
The career of Shane Richie
Mr Richie is best known for his long-running role as Alfie Moon in EastEnders.
He has played the character in several stints since 2002, and remains on the show today.
Mr Richie also finished fourth on I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out Of Here! in 2020.
Alongside that, he has presented several BBC game shows, including Reflex, Win Your Wish List and Decimate.
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