Leonard Fenton who starred as Dr. Harold Legg in 'EastEnders' has died.
Leonard Fenton as Dr. Harold Legg in EastEnders
The actor passed away on Saturday (29.01.22) at the age of 95 with his family revealing they "feel incredibly lucky to have been able to be with him as his health worsened towards the end – a privilege denied to so many during these tough times".
A statement released by his family read: "The family of the actor Leonard Fenton are heartbroken to announce his death at the age of 95 on Saturday January 29. Best known for his role as Dr Legg on 'EastEnders', Leonard’s acting career spanned more than 60 years.
“He worked in TV and film and his long stage career included time at the National Theatre and most recently the Royal Shakespeare Company. He felt privileged to have worked with some of the greats of the theatre, including Samuel Beckett, Orson Welles and Jonathan Miller.
“His passion for painting and singing pre-dated his acting career and was equally as important to him. He will be missed beyond words by his family.
“We feel incredibly lucky to have been able to be with him as his health worsened towards the end – a privilege denied to so many during these tough times.”
Leonard appeared as Dr. Legg in the first ever episode of 'EastEnders' broadcast in 1985.
He continued as an original cast member until the character was officially retired in 1999, although he went on to make a number of returns as Dr. Legg over the next 20 years, with his last scenes as his alter ego broadcast in 2019 which showed Dr. Legg sadly dying from pancreatic cancer.
Following the news of his passing, 'EastEnders' paid tribute to Leonard on the soap's official social media channels.
A Twitter post read: "Leonard Fenton’s family have shared a statement with us, announcing that he has very sadly passed away, at the age of 95 ... Our love and thoughts are with Leonard's family and friends."
An 'EastEnders' spokesperson added: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Leonard has passed away.
“Since appearing in the very first episode of EastEnders, Leonard created a truly iconic character in Doctor Legg who will always be remembered.
“Our love and thoughts are with Leonard’s family and friends.”