Fred Elliott from Coronation Street actor John Savident dies aged 86

John Savident has died at the age of 86, his agent has said.

The actor was well-known for playing Fred Elliott in Coronation Street.

Savident's agent said to the PA news agency in a statement: "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.”

Savident first arrived on the beloved British soap back in 1994, quickly becoming a fan favourite.

He played the booming voiced-butcher on the cobbles with storylines involving his absolutely disastrous love life.

Fred ended up having three marriages in total with a whole slog of failed proposals.

X/ITVCorrie

He was later joined by a secret son, Ashley (played by Steven Arnold) and the pair were butchers together.

His popular character was killed off on Coronation Street in 2006 when Fred suffered a stroke on the day he was supposed to marry Bev Unwin (Susie Blake).

As well as his time on ITV’s Corrie, many also know Savident for his performance creating the role of Monsieur Firmin in Phantom of the Opera on the West End back in 1986.

The Coronation Street legend also appeared in the likes of Doctor Who, The Remains of the Day and Danger Man. After his long stint on the soap he retired to be able to spend more time with his family.

Over the years, he made appearances in theatre again with UK tours and pantomime.

Savident was married to Rona Hopkinson since 1961, and the couple shared two children and several grandkids.

ITV

Soap actor Stuart Antony paid tribute to Savident on X as he wrote: "RIP wonderful John Savident. Always lovely and witty. Here’s a memory from a garden party years ago."

Director Morris Bright also wrote: "Nay lad... The most wonderful of character actors John Savident has died aged 86. Such a talented man, I say, such a talented man. Much adored as cheeky butcher Fred Elliott in Coronation Street. Thanks for all the joy."

Coronation Street writer Daran Little put: "Oh darling John Savident. So many happy memories forever in my heart. Rest in peace my friend, Big D."

Many fans called him one of the soap's 'finest' and 'funniest' actors.

If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence, contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.