EastEnders legend June Brown was instructed by medical experts to keep smoking after 70 years of puffing on cigarettes.
It was revealed on Monday (April 4) that the much love actress died at the age of 95 and was most famous for being the cigarette loving laundrette manageress of Albert Square.
While to some her chugging habit could have been a cause for concern, it was revealed by her on-screen son John Altman that doctors had actually encouraged the star to smoke half of her usual 20 per day packet.
Her TV son, who played “Nasty Nick” Cotton on the iconic soap explained back in 2020 that she was under doctors orders to continue toking away.
June who was a longstanding member of cast and had a career with the BBC spanning 35 years had regular contact with John who would visit her at her home in surrey.
(Image: PA)
Speaking about his on-screen mother’s health, John explained to the Sun at the time: “She is still smoking, unfortunately, but the doctors have told her not to stop now.
“She loves her ciggies. She smokes at least ten a day.”
The actress had attempted to say goodbye to the fags in 2019 and turned to e-cigarettes as a preventative measure.
However, she found the alternative “too heavy” and returned to her normal packet once again.
(Image: PA)
In 2020, June stepped down from her role as Dot Cotton on EastEnders after she’d complained about her storylines and had issues with reading her script.
At the time, there were fears over June’s eyesight and questions were asked if she could go blind.
In the same interview John updated on the issue, telling the publication: “Her eyesight’s not brilliant but apart from that she is full of beans. She gets the Kindle and her glasses, so she can still read.”
Earlier today the BBC confirmed the tragic news that June had sadly passed away, with the broadcasting giant hailing her as one of the most “iconic characters”.
(Image: DANIEL DEME/EPA-EFE/REX/Shutterstock)
An EastEnders spokesperson said in an announcement: “There are not enough words to describe how much June was loved and adored by everyone at EastEnders, her loving warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten.
“June created one of the most iconic characters in Dot Cotton, not just in soap but in British television, and having appeared in 2884 episodes, June’s remarkable performances created some of EastEnders finest moments.”
“We send all our love and deepest sympathies to June’s family and friends. A very bright light has gone out at EastEnders today but we shall all be raising a sweet sherry in June’s memory.
“Rest in peace, our dearest June. You will never be forgotten.”
A statement was also issued from the Brown’s family, which read: “We are deeply saddened to announce our beloved mother, June, passed away very peacefully at her home in Surrey on Sunday evening, with her family by her side.
“We would kindly ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
