‘EastEnders’ actor John Bardon has died aged 75.
John – who has starred as Jim Branning in the BBC One soap since the 90s – has passed away at the age of 75 after suffering from a stroke in 2007.
Having played Jim – who married Dot Cotton (June Brown) in the drama in 2002 – from 1996 to 2011, he was written out following his stroke as he required full-time care from his wife Enda.
However, he has returned to Albert Square on a number of occasions since as it was written into the storylines that Jim himself had had a bad turn and needed to be cared for in a nursing home.
June has led the tributes to her on-screen husband, saying: "I am so sorry that John has passed away but hope that he is now at peace after seven difficult years.
"I shall miss him very much as I loved him dearly. My thoughts are with his devoted wife, Enda."
A spokesperson for ‘EastEnders’ added: "Everyone at ‘EastEnders’ is absolutely heartbroken to hear that John has sadly passed away. His bravery, dignity and courage in battling against the devastating effects of his stroke were admired by all who had the privilege of working with him.
"Loved by all of us, John was an exceptionally talented writer whose humour, mischievousness and brilliant performances made Jim Branning one Walford’s most loveable characters and we will miss John forever.
"Our love and deepest sympathies are extended to Enda, his truly wonderful life, at this very sad time. May he now rest in peace. Tonight’s episode of ‘EastEnders’ is dedicated to John, who will be sorely missed by all those who knew and worked with him."
John Bardon has died aged 75
