Coronation Street fans were left emotional as the soap paid tribute to John Savident, best known for playing butcher Fred Elliott.
The actor, who was regular on the cobbles from 1994 until 2006, sadly died last week at the age of 86. Known for his booming voice, John’s portrayal of the loveable butcher cemented him as a cobbles icon.
A statement from his agent to the PA news agency on Friday February 23 said: “We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21 February, he was a much-loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”
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And at the end of Monday’s Coronation Street episode (February 26) the soap paid tribute to the beloved late actor. A picture of John appeared on-screen along with the text: “In Memory of” and “1938-2024.”
(Image: Daily Record)
Fans were quick to react to the tribute and were left emotional. On X, formerly known as Twitter, one person said: “Aww Rest In Peace John aka Fred. Nice tribute plenty of humour tonight.”
Someone else added: “That tribute to John Savident at the end of the episode got me. RIP I say RIP.” A third chimed in and wrote: “John Savident got the cliffhanger. Bless”
In 1994, Savident arrived on the cobbles and quickly became a fan favourite. His storylines involved his disastrous love life, including three marriages and several failed proposals. A secret son, Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold), also arrived on the show and the two later developed a close bond as they worked as butchers together.
Fred was killed off from the soap 2006 – leaving fans gutted. He suffered a stroke on the day he was supposed to marry Bev Unwin (Susie Blake).
(Image: Granada Television)
Fans took to social media to pay tribute to the Corrie legend. Taking to X, one fan penned last week: “Exceptional character in our favourite soap. RIP John Savident.” Another added: “Another great actor sadly passed away John Savident (Fred Elliot) R.IP.”
A third person wrote: “Always loved the character of Fred Elliott, and he is a highlight to watch on the ITV3 repeats at the moment. John Savident played him well and it was a sad day, I say a sad day when Fred collapsed in Audrey’s porch. Condolences to his family at this sad time.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
