Emmerdale star Tom Ashley has revealed the insult late actor Dennis Waterman called him during his first acting gig as he pays tribute to star after his passing in May.
The actor, who plays drug dealer Callum on the ITV soap, recalled “the best feedback he’s ever had” after telling fans the late star called him a “c*nt) on his first acting job.
Taking to Twitter at the time, Tom wrote: “Sad to hear the passing of a TV great. #DennisWaterman calling me a c**t on my first ever screen role was some of the best feedback I’ve ever had.
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“They don’t make ’em like him any more. He’ll be missed #RIPDennis #newtricks #oldschool.”
(Image: ITV)
The star was referencing an HBO Max show called New Tricks which Tom appeared in back in 2014 alongside Dennis.
The show follows three retired police officers who are drafted in to solve cold cases, with a touch of comedy and drama along the way.
Dennis’ second wife Patricia Maynard paid tribute to Dennis after his death as she revealed he died at his home in Spain following a two-year battle with lung cancer.
(Image: Getty Images)
Speaking to MailOnline Patricia said: “I’m terribly sad that he’s gone but I’m really pleased that he did not suffer and died peacefully.
“He had lung cancer and was really quite poorly for the last couple of years. The girls are very upset.”
The Minders star died at the age of 74 as he was comforted by his wife, Pam Flint.
(Image: ITV)
Patricia added: “The years that Dennis and I were together were happy. Obviously, it didn’t work out but lots of marriages don’t work out for whatever reason.
“But I’m so glad he had found the right woman at the end. I think he was very happy with Pam and she was with him when he passed.”
Tom joined a slew of celebs who offered their tributes to the star.
Comedian Paddy McGuiness wrote: “Myself and my Phoenix Nights cast mates used to sing the theme tune to Minder on tour and on the Karaoke! Gutted I never got to meet him, always wanted to be Terry McCann.
“Another icon from my childhood gone. RIP Dennis Waterman.”
DIY SOS presenter Nick Knowles shared: “I played golf on a tour to Bermuda with Dennis Waterman – I’m not much of a golfer – he was – but it was time spent with him between rounds that were well worth the trip. A genuinely lovely guy. RIP.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
