, best known for playing
Jim Branningin
EastEnders, has
passed away at the age of 75. On Friday, a statement was released via the BBC show's website that read: "Everyone at
EastEndersis
absolutely heartbrokento learn that John has sadly passed away.
"His
bravery, dignity and courage in battling against the devastating effects of his strokewere admired by all who had the privilege of working with him."Our love and deepest sympathies are extended to Enda, his truly wonderful wife, at this very sad time. May he now rest in peace."Tonight's episode of
EastEndersis dedicated to John, who will be sorely missed by all those who knew and worked with him."
, who played John's onscreen wife
Dot, said of the news, "
I shall miss him very much as I loved him dearly. My thoughts are with his devoted wife Enda."
Natalie Cassidy, who plays Sonia in the soap, said, "I never had a real granddad so
John was like an actual granddad to me. He was a lovely man and I learnt a lot from him."John suffered a debilitating stroke seven years ago and was forced to drastically reduce his
EastEndersappearances. His illness was reflected in the soap and he was last seen on screen in May 2011.
