EastEnders pays tribute to Leslie Grantham following his death

The soap dedicated Friday night’s episode to the late star

EastEnders paid a heartfelt tribute to Leslie Grantham during Friday night’s episode, following his sad death.

The BBC One soap dedicated the show to Leslie, who played iconic character Dirty Den, with a message at the end of the credits that read: ‘In memory of Leslie Grantham, 1947-2018.’

Stars of the show also took to social media to share their own messages to Leslie, with Letitia Dean – who plays his on-screen daughter Sharon Mitchell – writing: ‘I have very special memories of working with Leslie and will cherish them always.

‘He and Anita [Dobson] looked after me in my early days and showed me the ropes, always with care and kindness. He never failed to make me laugh and I will remember him with love, affection and gratitude forever. See you up there Leslie! Thank you for everything. Love and resepct always, Tish x.’

Anita Dobson, who starred as Den’s wife Angie, said: ‘I loved working with Leslie and will never forget our time working together on EastEnders.’

And Kathy Beale actress Gillian Taylforth added: ‘I’m deeply saddened to hear the very sad news. I have so many happy memories of working with Leslie, he was always great fun and we shared so many laughs.’