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EastEnders and theatre actor Frank Barrie dies

BBC Frank Barrie, playing EastEnders character Edward Bishop, approaches June Brown as Dot Branning in the Queen Vic pub.BBC
Frank Barrie played EastEnders character Edward Bishop from 2010 to 2011

Theatre star and former EastEnders actor Frank Barrie has died aged 88.

The Scarborough-born performer passed away peacefully at home surrounded by family, his agency Scott Marshall Partners said.

Barrie, who grew up in York, played Dot Cotton's love interest Edward Bishop in EastEnders from 2010 to 2011.

He was also known for his numerous Shakespearean roles on stage and was a member of Sir Laurence Olivier's National Theatre Company at the Old Vic.

The statement from his agency read: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our beloved client, Frank Barrie, at the age of 88.

"He died peacefully at home, with his wife Mary and daughter Julia."

BBC EastEnders also paid tribute to the actor, writing on X: "We are deeply saddened to hear that Frank Barrie has passed away.

"Our love and thoughts are with Frank's family and friends."

A young Frank Barrie, dressed in extravagant Shakespearean clothing, performs in a stage production of The Two Gentlemen of Verona.
Frank Barrie played Eglamour in the BBC TV adaptation of Shakespeare's The Two Gentlemen Of Verona

Barrie attended Archbishop Holgate's School in York, before going to the University of Hull where he met his wife.

He made his acting debut at York Theatre Royal in 1959, in a production of Henry IV Part 2.

The actor went on to star in The Woman In Black and Lunch With Marlene, and his one-man show Macready! played in 65 countries.

Barrie also made more than 150 screen appearances, including in shows such as Emergency Ward 10, No Hiding Place, Softly, Softly, Special Branch, On Giant's Shoulders and Queen Of Swords.

In 1983, he played Eglamour in the BBC TV adaptation of Shakespeare's The Two Gentlemen Of Verona.

He also found success as a director on productions of Shylock, JM Barrie and The Life And Loves Of Edith Wharton, all of which toured internationally.

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