Coronavirus: I Daniel Blake star Dave Johns told to sign on for jobseeker’s allowance after losing work

Actor noted it was a strange case of ‘life imitating art’

I, Daniel Blake star Dave Johns says he’s been told to sign on for jobseeker’s allowance after losing work due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The 64-year-old actor achieved acclaim for his performance in Ken Loach’s 2016 film, about Daniel, a Geordie carpenter who, despite suffering a heart attack, is denied employment and support allowance.

Daniel is forced to navigate the UK’s notoriously harsh employment support system, which he struggles with because he is not computer literate.

Johns recognised the irony of his situation, as he tweeted a “Coronavirus update” from his Twitter account.

“I’ve just been told to claim employment and support allowance, this is going to be a laugh when I walk into the job centre,” he wrote.

“Shall I bring the Bafta... No?... too much!”

Johns promised to share photos with his followers, and added the message: “Because of coronavirus all work cancelled life Imitating art!!!”

One fan joked: “At least you already know your lines.”