EastEnders Star Passes Away At 71

Eastenders star Leslie Grantham has passed away at the age of 71. The actor, who is best known for his role as Dirty Den Watts, once had the opening line of the first Episode of Eastenders.

Leslie left the show back in 1989 before returning again in 2003 but left two years later for good. Tributes have been pouring in from Leslie’s former co-stars, who call him a legend and one of the best actors that Walford has ever seen. Many, including actress Anita Dobson, say that they were “deeply shocked and saddened” over Leslie’s passing.

Anita added, “I loved working with Leslie and I will never forget our time together on EastEnders.”

Leslie’s agent announced that he had died on Friday morning in his home in Bulgaria and that arrangements are already being made for a private funeral, which will be held next week.

Many fans remember how Leslie’s character served his on-screen wife Angie divorce papers during a Christmas day episode back in 1986. Viewers also remember when it was announced that he was the father of teenage Michelle Fowler’s baby.

Unfortunately though, Leslie had his fair share of controversy in his life, too. In 1966 he was convicted with murdering a Germany taxi driver while serving as a soldier. In 2004, he also revealed to have taken part in a controversial webcam session from his Eastenders dressing room at Elstree Studios.

Our condolences go out to Leslie Grantham’s entire family. In the meantime, don’t forget that Eastenders airs weeknights on the BBC network. Check your local listings for times. Also, let us know what you think by dropping us a line with your thoughts in our comments section below. And as always, don’t forget to check back with Soap Opera Spy for all the latest news, updates and spoilers on Eastenders and all of your favorite British soaps right here!

And as always, don’t forget to check back with Celebrating the Soaps for all the latest news, updates and spoilers on Eastenders and all of your favorite British soaps right here!