Tributes have poured in after the death of ex-Brookside star Dean Sullivan.
The 68-year-old became a household name for his portrayal of Jimmy Corkhill on the Liverpool-based soap opera from 1986 until its last episode in 2003.
He earned a cult following among fans of the Channel 4 show and also received British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement in its final year.
Sullivan remained an active participant in his home city’s performing arts scene after Brookside ended but was also treated for prostate cancer in 2018.
A statement released by Hamilton Management on behalf of his family said: “It is with deep sadness we must tell you that actor Dean Sullivan passed away on 29th November 2023 peacefully following a short illness.
“Dean is best remembered as the longest-serving cast member of Channel 4’s groundbreaking Brookside playing the role of Jimmy Corkhill, making Dean a British soap icon.
“To millions he was and very much still is remembered as ‘Jimmy’, to family and friends he was ‘Dino’.”
It continued: “Dean’s family wants to thank Arrowe Park Hospital for their unwavering and consistent support.”
“We ask that you respect their privacy in their time of grief.”
Among the many tributes paid across the showbiz world to Sullivan was Claire Sweeney, who played his on-screen daughter Lyndsey Corkhill.
“Love you and will miss you Dean,” Sweeney wrote on social media.
“So glad we got to be together as a family one last time at this years Soap Awards.”
Michael Starke, who starred opposite him on Brookside as ‘Sinbad’, added: “RIP Old pal. I got to say goodbye one last time.
“Lovely memories and unforgettable adventures.
“To all of his many friends and family. From mine to yours.”