Actor Bill Tarmey dies at 71

Bill, who was a life-long heavy smoker, had “cheated” death twice before passing away on Friday morning.

12:34 11 November 2012

Reports have confirmed that actor Bill Tarmey, Coronation Street’s Jack Duckworth, has died. He was 71 years old and based on reports, he died in Tenerife on Friday morning. The actor is survived by wife Alma, son Carl, and daughter Sara.

Bill, who is best known for playing the role of Jack Duckworth in Coronation Street for 30 years, left the show in 2010 to spend more time with his family.

It is understood he wanted to also be at his son’s side while the latter was battling a life-threatening brain tumor.

Speaking about his illness in 2002 following a second heart attack, the actor said he was "deeply worried.”

 

He said: "I have cheated death so many times I feel like a cat running out of lives.

 

"I've already died twice and the last time they brought me back to life using a medical version of jump leads."

 

Several co-stars and friends from the industry have showed their sympathy.

Julie Goodyear, who played Bet Lynch, said: "This news is so very sad, not just for me but for all his other friends and of course his wife Ali, and all his family.

 

"This wonderful man will be sadly missed."