EastEnders’ Ross Kemp is "proud" of his on-screen mother Barbara Windsor and her husband for bravely opening up about her battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.
The 53-year-old actor – who worked with the legendary actress on and off for 26 years on the long-running soap when he played Grant Mitchell and she portrayed his mother Peggy Mitchell – has praised Barbara and her spouse Scott Mitchell for revealing that she was diagnosed with the "cruel disease" four years ago.
Taking to Twitter, Ross wrote: "Very proud of Scott and Barbara for speaking openly about Barbara’s diagnosis. I hope by talking openly it will make it easier for others to talk about this dreadful disease. I love both Barbara and Scott very much."
Ross isn’t the only one who has praised the 80-year-old actress’ "gutsy decision" to share her battle with the condition – which is the most common cause of dementia and can cause memory loss – with the nation as Piers Morgan has sent his "love and support" to her and her family and referred to her as "one of his favourite people."
He wrote: "Sending my love & support to the fabulous Dame Barbara Windsor, one of my favourite people. Alzheimer’s is a horrible thing.
"She & Scott going public about it like this is a typically gutsy decision by one of the gutsiest ladies I know. We’re all rooting for you, Babs! (sic)"
Lorraine Kelly added: "Such sad news about Barbara Windsor – a funny, kind, generous, big hearted woman. Alzheimer’s is a very cruel disease. I hope she knows how much she is loved. Thoughts with her husband Scott."
While Eamonn Holmes wished her the "very best" after her diagnosis.
Sharing a photograph of Barbara, he said: "Love this Woman!
"Ruth and I wish the #NationalTreasure that is Dame Barbara Windsor the very best after her Alzheimer’s diagnosis. (sic)"
Barbara’s husband Scott revealed her battle with the condition today (10.05.18) and has said that he hopes them coming forward will help other sufferers.
He said: "I hope speaking out will help other families dealing with loved ones who have this cruel disease. Secondly, I want the public to know because they are naturally very drawn to Barbara and she loves talking to them.
"So rather than me living in fear she might get confused or upset, they’ll know that if her behaviour seems strange, it’s due to Alzheimer’s and accept it for what it is."
The ‘Carry On’ star has been in a "definite continual confusion" since she turned 80 last August, and while she enjoys going out for walks, Scott – who has been married to the actress for 18 years – admitted she feels "a kind of shame" about the diagnosis.
Barbara has now retired from charity work as well as acting as a result of the disease.
Ross Kemp praises Barbara Windsor for opening up about her Alzheimer’s
