Bill Treacher, best known for playing Arthur Fowler in EastEnders, has died at the age of 92.
Arthur, husband of Pauline (Wendy Richard) and father to Mark, Michelle and Martin, was part of the soap's original cast when it began in 1985 - even appearing in the first scene of the first ever episode.
In 1996 the character was killed off with a brain haemorrhage and although Treacher continued acting, he chose to limit his work to small guest appearances.
A statement from his family said: "The family of the actor Bill Treacher are sad to announce that Bill died late Saturday night, 5 November 2022.
"He was 92 years old and his health had been declining for some time. He was much loved by his wife, Kate, his son, Jamie and his daughter, Sophie.
"Bill was a brilliant actor and a wonderful husband and father, plus a very fine human being. He will be hugely missed.
"The family respectfully request privacy at this time."
EastEnders executive producer Chris Clenshaw said: "Like so many, I grew up watching EastEnders with the beloved Arthur Fowler on his allotment, one of Walford's originals who can still be described as a true heart of the Square.
"To this day, Arthur Fowler is still so fondly remembered by the audience and that is due to the character that Bill created and the reason why the Fowler name is still very much alive in Albert Square, as are the great memories of those that worked with Bill. We send all our love and thoughts to Bill's wife and family."
Todd Carty, who played Arthur's son Mark, said: "I'm so sorry to hear about Bill passing, I absolutely loved working with him. He was not only an amazing actor but a kind and sincere man.
"My thoughts are with his family at this time. He'll be sadly missed, I will never forget him. May he rest in peace."
Neil Wilkes
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