EastEnders legend dies aged 88 as soap pays tribute to star 'who will never be forgotten'

EastEnders legend dies aged 88 as soap pays tribute to star 'who will never be forgotten'

by · PlymouthLive

EastEnders has paid tribute to a soap legend after it was announced they have passed away aged 88.

Tony Caunter, the actor famed for his role as Roy Evans, died this week. His family released a statement to the PA news agency which read: "It is with enormous sadness that we bring the curtain down on our wonderful and hugely loved father, Tony Caunter, who died peacefully yesterday evening, just eight days after his beloved wife of 63 years, Fran, also passed away. Dad was 88 years old.

"After a long and fulfilling life on and off screen and stage, Tony leaves a daughter and three sons, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. He will be missed by all."

The family continued: "We would like to thank the NHS staff at Eastbourne District General Hospital for their incredible care during his final hours, and to everyone at Eastbourne Gardens nursing home for the care and compassion they have given dad over the past two months."

The actor has died(Image: Getty)

They concluded their statement by requesting privacy "at this extremely difficult time".

EastEnders enthusiasts will recall Tony's portrayal of Roy Evans in the series from 1994 to 2003, where he was most recognised for his role as a car dealer engaged in a relationship with Albert Square legend Pat Butcher, played by Pam St Clement.

EastEnders chiefs also paid a heartfelt tribute to the beloved actor, stating: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Tony Caunter.

He played Roy on EastEnders(Image: BBC)

Tony will forever be loved and respected by everyone at EastEnders for his warmth, kindness and humour, as well as being greatly remembered by all those at home who instantly took Roy to their hearts.", reports the Express.

"Roy will always be remembered for his great love of Pat, despite him famously declaring his distaste for her choice of earrings, which gave us all one of Walford's greatest love affairs.

Tributes have poured in(Image: BBC)

"Tony will never be forgotten by all those who worked alongside him for many years, and everyone at EastEnders sends their love and condolences to Tony's family and friends."

Admirers have also taken to social media to honour Tony's memory, with one posting: "Sad to hear Tony Caunter has died, he was better known for playing Roy Evans." Another added: "RIP Tony Caunter." A third chimed in: "An EastEnders legend! RIP Tony Caunter."

EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday at 7:30pm on BBC One.