Emmerdale stars Danny Miller and Gemma Oaten have led tributes to their late co-star Meg Johnson after her shock death on Sunday (July 2).
Meg had played secretary Pearl Ladderbanks since 2003, and was involved in plenty of iconic storylines including a huge fire, a gambling addiction and embezzlement charges.
She also appeared in rival soaps Coronation Street and Brookside.
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Gemma Oaten, who played Rachel Breckle in the soap until 2015, was one of the first to pay tribute, writing on Twitter: “Such a sad loss, but what a life and what a treasure she was. Sending love to you all.
(Image: Mersey Television Company Limited)
“She was always so kind (and wickedly funny). Love to her beloved family and friends too! RIP.”
While Aaron Dingle star Danny Miller penned: “Truly devastated to hear this. Pearl was a fair way to describe our lovely Meg.
“The creator of ‘pig’s bum!!’ – should she ever forget her lines, and a loved soul throughout the building. Shared many laughs with her and Dominic [Brunt] on set. Rest well Meg!”
Lisa Riley, best known for playing Mandy Dingle on the soap, echoed: “GOD BLESS YOU MEG. Those many many many days at OTW with David, you taught me so much – discipline, respect, comedy, and how not to take life too seriously.
(Image: Ken McKay/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)
“You are the true meaning of the words WONDERFUL WOMAN. Your energy lives on, because you were so very special. RIP Meg.”
Bernice Blackstock actress Samantha Giles added: “So sad to learn of lovely Meg Johnson’s passing, who played the glamorous Pearl in Emmerdale.
“She was such fun and I particularly remember her famous saying when she got her lines wrong: ‘Oh pig’s bum’. You will be missed.”
While ITV’s This Morning resident soap correspondent Sharon Marshall penned: “Oh this is such sad news. Meg was wonderful! Will never forget her belting out Chicago numbers on demand during an interview.
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“The original and best West End Mama Morton. What a talent.”
Meg’s family confirmed her passing in an emotional statement, which read: “It is with great sadness that we announce that actress Meg Johnson passed away peacefully yesterday evening surrounded by her family.
“Meg was a kind and wonderful lady, full of warmth and always with a twinkle in her eye.
“Meg had an outstanding career that ended with her playing Pearl Ladderbanks in Emmerdale from 2003.
“Meg had dementia for the last few years, but battled on personally and professionally regardless.
“She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.”
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
