EastEnders icon Jake Wood has said he’s “gutted” after being forced to pull out of the London Marathon.
The actor, best known for playing Max Branning in the BBC One soap, issued a health update with fans just hours before he was due to take on the challenge in memory of the late Barbara Windsor.
He was due to run the marathon to raise funds for dementia charities following the death of the Peggy Mitchell actress.
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In a video shared on his Instagram page on Friday (April 21), Jake told fans: ” “Unfortunately, I’ll be unable to run the London Marathon [on] Sunday due to medical advice.
(Image: @mrjakewood/Instagram)
“I’ve got a very bad chest infection, I’ve had it for the last couple of weeks. I’ve been told in no uncertain terms to not run.”
He added: “I’m gutted to not be running it with all my fellow Babs’ Army, raising money for Alzheimer’s Research UK.
“I’ll be really sad to not be with them on the day.”
Barbara’s widow Scott Mitchell wrote to Jake on Instagram: “Jake you have been a warrior all through training!
(Image: @mrjakewood/Instagram)
“We are so sorry to lose you from the team!! Your health comes first but just fitted for you! Thanks for all you have done this far! Love you mate!”
Ian Beale actor Adam Woodyatt added: “Gutted for you Bud. Tough decision but the right one.”
Jo Joyner, who played Max Branning’s wife Tanya Branning, said: “Gutted for you hun, I know how hard you’ve all worked for it. But best you get well again xx.”
(Image: @mrjakewood/Instagram)
Rainie Cross actress Tanya Franks commented: “Jake we will miss you massively, and know that we all love you and are wishing you well!!!”
Emma Barton, who plays Honey Mitchell in the soap, agreed writing: “Oh Jake!! Get well soon matey.. gutted for you.. but you have to look after yourself.. loves ya.”
Soap legend Barbara died in December 2020 following a battle with Alzheimer’s.
Jake was due to run alongside her widower Scott and other EastEnders stars including Lacey Turner, Natalie Cassidy and Adam.
Babs’ Army have been posting their training runs together on Instagram in the lead-up to the marathon.
Ahead of the announcement, Jake revealed the stars all knew and loved Barbara and see the marathon as a fitting tribute.
He said: “We all knew Barbara and loved her. She was an amazing person. It’s an honour to be doing this in her memory.”
Jake added in his interview to the Mirror: “She ruled the roost on set but was just so gracious and welcoming with it.”
EastEnders airs Monday to Thursday on BBC One at 7.30pm
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
