STARS from across the television industry have paid tribute to June Brown, the actress who starred as Eastenders Dot Cotton for more than 30 years.
The chain-smoking Dot won a place in the nation’s hearts from her shifts in the Walford launderette to her marriage to Jim Branning and her defence of her ne’er do well son ‘Nasty Nick’, played by John Altman.
It was a role she played for more than 30 years, into her 90s and for a total of 2,884 episodes according to the BBC.
“We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved June Brown, OBE, MBE sadly passed away last night,” a spokesperson said.
“There are not enough words to describe how much June was loved and adored by everyone at EastEnders, her loving warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten.
“June created one of the most iconic characters in Dot Cotton, not just in soap but in British television, and having appeared in 2884 episodes, June’s remarkable performances created some of EastEnders finest moments.
“We send all our love and deepest sympathies to June’s family and friends. A very bright light has gone out at EastEnders today but we shall all be raising a sweet sherry in June’s memory.
“Rest in peace, our dearest June. You will never be forgotten.”
Celebrities took to Twitter to pay their respects
RIP June Brown honestly this woman’s career was amazing. If you grew up in an estate there was always a Dot Cotton. Absolute iconic character in Eastender 🙌🏾 pic.twitter.com/5X0jBm00th
— Mo Gilligan (@MoTheComedian) April 4, 2022
June Brown, amongst all her other wonderful human qualities and achievements, will be remembered as a tireless and fearless LGBT ally – especially during the darkest days of HIV/AIDS and Section 28… it was a privilege to know her
— Stephen Fry (@stephenfry) April 4, 2022
The GOAT of soaps. June Brown, you absolute bloody legend. What a career. What a life. What a woman. EastEnders never recovered without you. Rise high. pic.twitter.com/yrycrIWWVX
— Dan Wootton (@danwootton) April 4, 2022
