Coronation Street icon Philip Lowrie has sadly died at the age of 88 after a long stint playing Dennis Tanner in the ITV soap. Philip was one of the original cast members when the soap started in 1960, and returned to continue his romance with Rita decades later. Now his publicist Mario Renzullo has confirmed the news of his death to ITV News.
His statement read: "My client and very dear friend, Philip Lowrie, the beloved actor renowned for his role as Dennis Tanner on Coronation Street, passed away yesterday at 88. His death marks the end of an era for the world’s longest-running soap, where he became a cornerstone of its storytelling."
The Cheshire born star appeared in 673 episodes of the soap over the years, with his last appearance being in 2014. He was also known for roles in everything from Rules of Engagement to Casualty, and appeared alongside Victoria Wood for episodes of her sketch show.
He was just 24 years old when he first joined the soap in 1960, staying on the ITV cobbles until 1968 as Elsie Tanner's on-screen son. He returned in 2011 for three years, claiming the Guinness World Record for the longest gap between TV appearances as the same character in the same programme.
The actor confessed at the time: "I’ve always been proud to have been a member of the original cast of Coronation Street. Now I’m doubly proud to be honoured in the Guinness World Records book."
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