Paul Danan sympathises with Winehouse

Paul Danan has spoken about how much he sympathises with 'Rehab' singer Amy Winehouse.

The former Hollyoaks actor admitted that he struggled to cope with his own celebrity lifestyle after being thrust into the spotlight thanks to the Channel 4 soap, and understands what Winehouse is going through.

"After Hollyoaks, it all went crazy and I was suddenly at all these wild parties being offered all sorts of things," Paul told the Daily Star. "Nothing prepares you for it. People forget that many people are thrust into a celebrity scene without knowing what to expect, especially if you're as young as someone like Amy Winehouse.

"She's only 23 and most people are still drinking cider fresh from university at that age. It was tough for me when I suddenly became well known. It was great, don't get me wrong, but I had no reference point."

Winehouse was rushed to hospital after overdosing on drugs earlier this month. She later checked into the Causeway rehab clinic in Essex.

Love Island star Paul added: "When you get money, you attract drug addicts and they're always keen for a new convert. Couple that with the pressure of fame and odd working hours and you can see how people go down that route. I have so much sympathy for Amy Winehouse."