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Big Keith goes Bust

The Office star Ewen Mackintosh declares bankruptcy – while his co-stars rake in millions

The actor played 'Big Keith' Bishop in the UK version of the smash hit BBC sitcom

OFFICE star Ewen Mackintosh has been declared bankrupt – despite his co-stars making £112million since the classic sitcom.

Comic Ewen, 43, who played accounts oddball Keith Bishop in the BBC comedy, went bust after owing the taxman thousands of pounds.

He struggled for acting roles since the hit series ended in 2003.

 Ewen Mackintosh played Keith in the hit BBC show
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Ewen Mackintosh played Keith in the hit BBC showCredit: BBC

During his time in the show he was known for hilariously eating a scotch egg, dressing up as Ali G and describing his weakness on a staff appraisal as “eczema”.

His career path is in stark contrast to his fellow cast members.

Ricky Gervais, 55, who played madcap boss David Brent, went onto make £65million through Extras and Hollywood movies Ghost Town and The Invention of Lying.

 Ewen reprised his role for the live show of David Brent: Life on the Road
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Ewen reprised his role for the live show of David Brent: Life on the RoadCredit: Getty Images - WireImage

Co-creator Stephen Merchant, 41, has also raked in the cash with his hit US sitcom Hello Ladies and An Idiot Abroad earning him £29million.

He is now the new presenter on the revamped Crystal Maze and will appear in the new X-Men movie.

Martin Freeman, 45, who played loveable salesman Tim Canterbury, earnt his £15million fortune through playing Bilbo Baggins in The Hobbit trilogy and Dr Watson in Sherlock.

 Ewen was declared bankrupt after owing thousands to the tax man
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Ewen was declared bankrupt after owing thousands to the tax manCredit: Getty Images

Meanwhile, Mackenzie Crook, 45, who played Tim’s nemesis Gareth Keenan, made £12million after starring in the Pirates of the Caribbean franchise.
Ewen had small roles in Little Britian and Miranda as well as on the stage.

But his movie role in The Confusion of Tongues alongside Sadie Frost and Gemma Atkinson where he played “Barry the Window Cleaner” flopped at the box office in 2014.


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