Coronation Street star Johnny Briggs dies aged 85

Actor Johnny Briggs, who played Mike Baldwin in Coronation Street, has died aged 85 after a long illness.

His family confirmed the news on Sunday morning.

Briggs, MBE, who was a father-of-six, is best remembered for the 30 years he spent on the ITV soap, which included a famous bust-up with Ken Barlow (Bill Roache) following an affair with his wife Deirdre, played by the late Anne Kirkbride.

He appeared in 2349 episodes before leaving the show in 2006.

Former Coronation Street actor Johnny Briggs, an MBE, has died aged 85.

Paying tribute to Briggs in a statement, his family said: “It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our father, Johnny Briggs.

“He passed away peacefully this morning after a long illness, with family by his side. He was 85.

“We politely ask for privacy at this time, so that we can quietly grieve as a family and remember the wonderful times we had with him. Thank you.”

Coronation Street actors have shared tributes of their own on social media.Briggs made his Corrie debut in 1976 and remained on the Cobbles until 2006, playing the role of an underwear factory boss.

The official Coronation Street Twitter account posted: “The whole Coronation Street family is deeply saddened by the death of Johnny Briggs.

"In the role of Mike Baldwin, he truly was one of the most iconic characters The Street has ever known. We wish Johnny's family all our condolences.”

Antony Cotton, who plays Sean Tully, described Briggs as “a complex character, on and off screen", adding “we all adored him”.

He tweeted: “Feel lucky that I got the chance to work with him in the factory. I am, and will always be, a Baldwin's Casual.

“Night night Mr Baldwin, I've left you a bottle of Scotch in the filing cabinet...”

Helen Worth, who plays Gail Platt, said: “I am very sorry to hear the sad news.

“I have many happy memories of working together with Johnny. He was one of the street's most memorable characters.”

Samia Longchambon, who plays Maria Connor, tweeted: “#RestInPeace Johnny Briggs. Really sorry to hear the sad news.

“I have fond memories of working with Johnny, he was such a lovely man.”

Sally Dynevor took to Twitter to say she had “lots of happy memories” with the “wonderful actor”.

Thank you for reading this article on our free-to-read website. We're more reliant on your support than ever as the shift in consumer habits brought about by coronavirus impacts our advertisers.

Please consider purchasing a subscription to our print newspaper to help fund our trusted, fact-checked journalism.

https://www.localsubsplus.co.uk/nord/dm/FKH/V