Peter Heppelthwaite, the actor best known for his roles in EastEnders and the Only Fools and Horses spin-off The Green Green Grass, has died suddenly. He was 52.
Tributes from Agents and Family
London-born actor Peter Heppelthwaite also appeared in the BBC sitcom Coupling. His agents at Apollo Artist Management announced his death on social media, though no cause of death has been confirmed.
In a statement, they said: "We are heartbroken to share the sad news that our wonderful client and friend, Peter Heppelthwaite, passed away yesterday. Peter was a hugely gifted actor, director, teacher and mentor, with a warmth and generosity that reached far beyond the work itself."
His daughter, Georgia Hewer-Heppelthwaite, shared a moving tribute: "After the most incredible fight, our epic dad, Peter Heppelthwaite, passed away peacefully yesterday holding our hands. Everyone who knows dad will know that this is a man who never gave up, loved deeply, and was just unafraid of doing absolutely everything to the fullest."
Career Highlights
Peter landed his first TV role in Two Point Four Children after graduating from Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in 1999. He secured several television roles, including that of Linal in the BBC's EastEnders in the 1990s.
However, it was his role as Jed in The Green Green Grass that made him a household name. He starred alongside Sue Holderness and John Challis in the Only Fools and Horses spin-off for 30 episodes.
Fan Tributes
Only Fools fans have taken to social media to pay tribute. One wrote: "It comes with great shock and sadness that we have to report the death of actor Peter Heppelthwaite, Jed from the Only Fools spin-off The Green Green Grass. Our heartfelt condolences and warm wishes go out to his family and close friends."
A close friend of Peter's said: "There aren't many words to sum up this man or the effect he's had on my life. I first met Pete in 2017. He taught me the importance of leading by example and being a stand-up person. He's taught me everything I know, not just about my profession but about life."
If you have been affected by this story, Cruse Bereavement Support offers free help to make sense of how you are feeling. Click here for their website or call 0808 808 1677.
