EastEnders And Only Fools And Horses Actor Peter Heppelthwaite Dies Aged 59 As Family Pay Heartbreaking Tribute
Actor Peter Heppelthwaite, known for appearances in EastEnders and the Only Fools and Horses spin-off The Green Green Grass, has died at the age of 59.
His family confirmed that the much-loved performer died peacefully on Saturday after what they described as an “incredible fight”.
The cause of his death has not been publicly disclosed.
Peter leaves behind three adult children, who said they remained in shock following the loss of their devoted father.
His daughter, Georgia Hewer-Heppelthwaite, announced the sad news in an emotional statement shared with friends and followers.
She wrote: “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.”
Georgia said her father’s life had been cut short but had nevertheless been filled with love, determination and passion.
She asked people not to feel sorry for the family, explaining that she and her siblings considered themselves extraordinarily fortunate to have had Peter as their father.
Instead, the family encouraged those who knew him to share their favourite memories and stories.
“We’re still in shock, so please understand if we feel too overwhelmed to respond to anything right now,” she continued.
“But please don’t feel sorry for our loss.
“We are beyond lucky to have had Peter Heppelthwaite as our dad. Please just share a story about him, something you will remember him for, something we can smile about.”
Tributes quickly poured in from Peter’s colleagues, students, friends and fans following the announcement.
His representatives at Apollo Artist Management described him as a gifted actor whose influence reached far beyond his television and theatre credits.
In a heartfelt statement, the agency said: “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.”
The statement praised his ability to bring humour, heart and total commitment to every project.
It added that Peter possessed the rare gift of making those around him feel valued, supported and stronger for having known him.
While his professional career spanned television, theatre and film, the agency said his greatest legacy could be found in the lives of other performers he encouraged.
Peter was particularly passionate about helping younger actors develop their confidence and discover their own voices.
“He cared deeply, worked tirelessly, and left a mark on everyone lucky enough to cross his path,” the agency said.
“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.”
Peter trained at the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art, graduating in 1999 before beginning a varied career across the British entertainment industry.
One of his earliest television appearances came in the popular BBC sitcom 2point4 Children.
He later secured a guest role in EastEnders, appearing as a character named Linal during the 1990s.
However, he became best known to television audiences for playing Jed in The Green Green Grass, the BBC sitcom created as a spin-off from Only Fools and Horses.
The series followed Boycie and Marlene as they left their familiar Peckham surroundings for a new life in rural Shropshire.
Peter appeared alongside original Only Fools and Horses stars John Challis and Sue Holderness and featured in 30 episodes of the programme.
His performance made him a familiar face to fans of one of Britain’s most enduring comedy franchises.
The Only Fools and Horses Appreciation Society also expressed its sadness following confirmation of his death.
In a Facebook tribute, the organisation wrote: “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.”
Fans responded by recalling Peter’s warmth, humour and memorable performances.
Others paid tribute to the guidance he had offered as a teacher and mentor, describing him as generous with both his knowledge and his time.
Although audiences will remember him for his appearances in some of Britain’s most recognisable television programmes, those closest to Peter said his kindness was his most important quality.
His family’s request for happy memories reflected the way he lived — with enthusiasm, courage and a determination to embrace life fully.
Peter’s death leaves his relatives, friends and colleagues mourning a deeply loved father and a respected member of the acting community.
But through his performances, his teaching and the many people he supported throughout his career, his influence will continue to be felt for years to come.
