Bill Tarmey. Photo Getty
Actor Bill Tarmey, who played Jack Duckworth in the
long-running soap opera Coronation Street, has died aged 71.
His family confirmed that he died in Tenerife, Spain, on
Friday (local time), and asked for "privacy as they grieve
for a wonderful husband, father and brother", BBC reports.
Tarmey left the soap in 2010 after more than 30 years in the
show.
A statement from Coronation Street said the cast, crew and
production team were "devastated" to learn of his death.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill's wife and soulmate
Ali and their family at this very sad time," it said.
Liz Dawn, who played his on-screen wife Vera Duckworth, said:
"You couldn't wish to meet a more lovely man and a true
gentleman."
Tarmey was married to his childhood sweetheart Alison for 50
years and they had two children.
A name, residential address, and (preferably residential) telephone number is required from readers who comment on ODT Online. These details will not be visible to site visitors.