Vale: Leonard Fenton

Veteran UK actor Leonard Fenton, best known for EastEnders, has died, aged 95.

“The family of the actor Leonard Fenton are heartbroken to announce his death at the age of 95 on Saturday, Jan. 29. Best known for his role as Dr Legg on EastEnders, Leonard’s acting career spanned more than 60 years,” his family said in a statement. “He worked in TV and film and his long stage career included time at the National Theatre and most recently the Royal Shakespeare Company. He felt privileged to have worked with some of the greats of the theatre, including Samuel Beckett, Orson Welles and Jonathan Miller.

“His passion for painting and singing pre-dated his acting career and was equally as important to him,” the statement added. “He will be missed beyond words by his family. We feel incredibly lucky to have been able to be with him as his health worsened towards the end — a privilege denied to so many during these tough times.”

Fenton played Dr. Harold Legg in the first episode of EastEnders in 1985 and his last appearance was in 2019.

In all, he appeared in 267 episodes.

An EastEnders spokesperson added: “We are deeply saddened to hear that Leonard has passed away. Since appearing in the very first episode of EastEnders, Leonard created a truly iconic character in Doctor Legg who will always be remembered. Our love and thoughts are with Leonard’s family and friends.”

He also appeared in Doctors, Doctor Who and Give My Regards to Broad Street.

Source: Variety