Peter Heppelthwaite obit

Only Fools and Horses star dies suddenly as tributes flood in

The actor starred in EastEnders and an Only Fools and Horses spin-off

 

He was not on the list.

Peter Heppelthwaite has sadly died, with tributes pouring in for the actor who played the role of Jed in the Only Fools and Horses spin-off The Green Green Grass. The London-born actor was 59 years old and died suddenly on Saturday, June 13. His agency, Apollo Artist Management, confirmed the heartbreaking news in an official statement, which read: "We are heartbroken to share the sad news that our wonderful client and friend, Peter Heppelthwaite, passed away yesterday.

“Peter was a hugely gifted actor, director, teacher and mentor, with a warmth and generosity that reached far beyond the work itself. He brought humour, heart and complete commitment to everything he did, and he had that rare ability to make people feel seen, supported and better for having known him.

“His career took him across television, theatre and film, but his impact was much bigger than a list of credits.

“Peter gave so much to other performers, especially young actors finding their confidence and their voice. He cared deeply, worked tirelessly, and left a mark on everyone lucky enough to cross his path.

“We feel incredibly proud to have represented him. Our thoughts and love are with Peter’s family, friends, students, colleagues and all who loved him. Rest peacefully, Pete. You will be very deeply missed.”

Georgia Hewer-Heppelthwaite, the star's daughter paid a touching tribute to her beloved dad on social media which read: “After the most incredible fight, our epic dad, Peter Heppelthwaite, passed away peacefully yesterday holding our hands. Everyone who knows dad will know that this is a man who never gave up, loved deeply, and was just unafraid of doing absolutely everything to the fullest.

“His life was shortened but immensely full of love, passion and determination that we will carry with us always. We’re still in shock so please understand if we feel too overwhelmed to respond to anything right now but please don’t feel sorry for our loss."

The sad news was also shared by the Only Fools and Horses Appreciation Society earlier today, which posted on Facebook: “It comes with great shock and sadness that we have to report the death of actor Peter Heppelthwaite, Jed from the Only Fools spin-off ‘The Green Green Grass’. Our heartfelt condolences and warm wishes go out to his family and close friends.”

 

Actor

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The Green Green Grass

6.6

TV Series

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30 episodes

 

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London's Burning (1988)

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1992

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Archive Footage

John Challis and Sue Holderness in The Green Green Grass (2005)

The Green Green Grass

6.6

TV Series

Jed (archive footage, uncredited)

2009

1 episode