John Savident, known for playing Fred Elliott in Coronation Street, has died aged 86, his agent has said.
‘We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21st February.’ the statement from his agent read.
‘He was a much loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.’
A statement from Coronation Street in tribute to the actor read:
‘Everyone at Coronation Street is deeply saddened to learn of John Savident’s death. As Fred Elliott, John firmly established himself in the pantheon of Coronation Street greats.
‘His peerless comic timing, combined with a deep pathos arising from his outstanding dramatic skill, made Fred an unforgettable, iconic character that provided great joy to viewers for many years.’
John was born in Guernsey in 1938 and still lived there at the time of the German occupation of the island in 1940. He and his family escaped to Britain in a fishing boat.
He first appeared in the role of Fred Elliott in 1994, before returning in 1995. He became a permanent fixture on the cobbles in 1996, where he remained until 2006.
The character was much loved by fans, and remembered fondly for his odd quirks and disastrous love life.
Over the years, some of his biggest storylines included Fred’s revelation that nephew Ashley Peacock was secretly his son.
Fred was famously unlucky in love, marrying a total of three times, and having several other proposals turned down!
The character died in Audrey Robert’s (Sue Nicholls) hallway of a stroke in October 2006, on his way to his wedding to Bev Unwin.
Away from the cobbles, John was a former police officer and created the role of Monsieur Firmin in the original Phanton of the Opera musical in London.
He also starred in the 1971 movie A Clockwork Orange.
Following his long stint on the ITV soap, John went on to star in numerous pantos, as well as an episode of Holby City and a Doctor Who audio drama.
