Coronation Street star Bill Tarmey has died

Coronation Street star Bill Tarmey has died in Tenerife at the age of 71.

Tarmey starred as Jack Duckworth in the soap between 1979 and 2010. His partnership with Liz Dawn, Jack’s wife Vera, helped cement his place as one of the Street’s best-loved characters.
A statement from Tarmey’s family read: “The family of Bill Tarmey have confirmed that he sadly passed away this morning in Tenerife. They have respectfully asked the media for privacy as they grieve for a wonderful husband, father and brother.”

“The cast, crew and production team at Coronation Street are devastated to hear of Bill’s death. Our thoughts and prayers are with Bill’s wife and soulmate Ali and their family at this very sad time.” – Coronation Street spokesperson

The actor quit his role as Jack in 2010 in order to spend more time with his family in particular his son Carl who had received a brain tumour diagnosis. Viewers saw Jack pass away peacefully in his sleep, whilst Vera made a special one-off appearance for the episode, having left the soap in 2008.

“It was delightful. And very moving. It was a case of, ‘Pass the hand towel’, never mind the box of tissues. I’ve become a right old Jessie in my old age.” – Tarmey on his final scenes

Tarmey had previously suffered a heart attack in 2002 following a bypass operation. He is survived by wife Alma and their two children, Carl and Sara.
Bill Tarmey 1941-2012