John Bardon - famous for playing Jim Branning in EastEnders - has passed away at 75.
Having played Jim from 1996 to 2011, John was written out of te soap as he required full-time care for his real-life wife following a stroke.
John BardonHe has since made guest appearances on the Square, including one time that saw his character take a bad turn and be cared for in a nursing home.
June Brown who played on-screen wife Dot Branning led tributes, saying: "I am so sorry that John has passed away but hope that he is now at peace after seven difficult years.
"I shall miss him very much as I loved him dearly. My thoughts are with his devoted wife, Enda."
An EastEnders spokesperson commented: "Everyone at 'EastEnders' is absolutely heartbroken to hear that John has sadly passed away. His bravery, dignity and courage in battling against the devastating effects of his stroke were admired by all who had the privilege of working with him.
"Loved by all of us, John was an exceptionally talented writer whose humour, mischievousness and brilliant performances made Jim Branning one Walford's most loveable characters and we will miss John forever.
"Our love and deepest sympathies are extended to Enda, his truly wonderful life, at this very sad time. May he now rest in peace. Tonight's episode of 'EastEnders' is dedicated to John, who will be sorely missed by all those who knew and worked with him."
Tagged in Eastenders