Corrie fans moved by emotional tribute to Fred Elliott star John Savident

26 February 2024 , 21:17

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Coronation Street fans were left moved on Monday night as the ITV soap paid tribute to Fred Elliott star John Savident after his death aged 86 (Image: Granada Television)

Coronation Street fans were left moved on Monday night as the ITV soap paid tribute to Fred Elliott star John Savident after his death aged 86.

The 86-year-old was known for his booming voice while playing butcher Fred Elliott on the ITV soap between 1994 and his departure in 2006. His character was instantly recognisable to millions for his bubbly yet often confrontational personality and famous saying: "I say."

A statement from his agent said on Friday: "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.

At the end of Monday night's episode of Coronation Street, the ITV soap paid tribute in the credits by showing a picture of John with the following: "In memory of John Savident 1938 - 2024." Taking to Twitter, now X, viewers were left emotional over the tribute. One person said: "That tribute to John Savident at the end of the episode got me. RIP #Corrie", a different account put: "Nice little memoriam to #JohnSavident at the end of tonight's #Corrie" while another added: "Lovely tribute to John at the end #Corrie."

Coronation Street fans were left moved on Monday night as the ITV soap paid tribute to Fred Elliott star John Savident after his death aged 86 (ITV1)

It comes as Coronation Street also paid tribute to the actor on Friday. ITV Executive Producer for Continuing Drama, Iain MacLeod, said: "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."

Meanwhile, in an emotional statement shared with The Mirror, Sue Nicholls 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."

In 1994, John 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. In 2005 it was announced that John would be leaving the Manchester-based soap, citing "personal reasons". John's character was killed off in 2006, suffering a stroke on the day he was supposed to marry Bev Unwin, played by Susie Blake.

Olivia Wheeler