Coronation Street's Sue Nicholls' emotional tribute as John Savident dies

23 February 2024 , 12:57

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ITV Coronation Street's Sue Nicholls' emotional tribute as John Savident dies (Image: PA)

Coronation Street's Sue Nicholls has broken her silence after John Savident's death was announced.

Confirming John's death, a statement from his agent read: "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." The Guernsey-born legend is survived by his wife, Rona Hopkinson and his two sons and several grandchildren.

John's character, butcher Fred Elliot was a firm fan favourite on the ITV soap between 1994 and his departure in 2006. The character who was known for his no-nonsense but loveable personality was instantly recognisable for his famous saying: "Oh I say".

Sue paid tribute to her "dear John" (ITV)

The late actor died earlier this week (Granada Television)

In an emotional statement shared with The Mirror, Sue who plays Audrey Roberts said: "I am very sad to hear of John's passing. My memories of working with you dear John on the street are a joy, and always will be. God bless you and thank you for being in my life. Much love to you and your friends and family." Savident's character was killed off in 2006, suffering a stroke on the day he was supposed to marry Bev Unwin. Fred's death also saw Audrey confess that she still loved him following her turning down his proposal of marriage years previously.

Elsewhere, Coronation Street has paid tribute to the actor with ITV Executive Producer for Continuing Drama, Iain MacLeod, saying: "Everyone at Coronation Street is deeply saddened to learn of John Savident’s death. As Fred Elliott, John firmly established himself in the pantheon of Coronation Street greats.

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"His peerless comic timing, combined with a deep pathos arising from his outstanding dramatic skill, made Fred an unforgettable, iconic character that provided great joy to viewers for many years. On behalf of everyone here, I would like to extend condolences to John's family and close friends at this sad time."

The later actor had several high-profile storylines during his time on the show, including three marriages and multiple failed proposals. Shortly after John joined the show, his secret son Ashley Peacock arrived and they instantly developed a close bond before going on to work in the local butchers with one another.

One fan took to X, formerly known as Twitter, writing: "Gawd bless you John Savident, I SAY God bless you. One of Corrie's finest, truly unforgettable classic characters and a marvellous actor." Another penned: "Oh, no! John Savident, known for playing Fred Elliott in Coronation Street, has died aged 86. What a legend! I say, I say!"

"Absolutely heartbroken, thank you for the legendary Fred Elliott he will always be the best Coronation Street character of all time," said a third. Meanwhile, another typed: "Coronation Street's Fred Elliott dies aged 86. This makes me very sad, I say, very sad." One Coronation Street fan page penned: "Saddened to hear of the passing of John Savident who played #Corrie’s eccentric butcher, Fred Elliott. Fred was the epitome of a #ClassicCorrie character and will be remembered for years to come, I say years to come. RIP John."

Daniel Bird