Coronation Street actor Johnny Briggs dies aged 85

28 February 2021, 11:05 | Updated: 28 February 2021, 12:59

Actor Johnny Briggs, who played Mike Baldwin in Coronation Street, died on Sunday aged 85 after a long illness, his family said.

The family of Johnny Briggs said in a statement: "It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our father, Johnny Briggs.

"He passed away peacefully this morning after a long illness, with family by his side. He was 85. We politely ask for privacy at this time, so that we can quietly grieve as a family and remember the wonderful times we had with him. Thank you."

Friends and co-stars have paid tribute to the actor and looked back on their time working with him, saying "we all adored him".

Briggs made his Corrie debut as Mike Baldwin in 1976 and remained on the Cobbles until 2006, playing the role of an underwear factory boss.

His on-screen feud with character Ken Barlow was an ongoing plot line during his 30-year stint on the cobbles.

The official Coronation Street Twitter account posted: "The whole Coronation Street family is deeply saddened by the death of Johnny Briggs.

"In the role of Mike Baldwin, he truly was one of the most iconic characters The Street has ever known. We wish Johnny's family all our condolences."

Emmerdale actor John Bowe tweeted: "RIP Johnny Briggs. Never forgotten introducing you to Guacamole!"

Former Corrie writer Phil Ford tweeted: "Very very sad to hear that actor Johnny Briggs has died.

"Knew him during my time on Corrie. Many a lunchtime chat. Lots of smiles."

Conservative MP for Bournemouth West, Conor Burns, tweeted: "Sad to hear Johnny Briggs has died.

"A great actor who brought pleasure to millions through his character Mike Baldwin.

"Will always be remembered for some of @itvcorrie most dramatic, funny and moving scenes. The passing of an era on the cobbles. RIP."

Coronation Street's Antony Cotton said "we all adored him" of Johnny Briggs.

"Johnny Briggs was a complex character, on and off screen, and we all adored him," he tweeted.

"Feel lucky that I got the chance to work with him in the factory. I am, and will always be, a Baldwin's Casual.

"Night night Mr Baldwin, I've left you a bottle of Scotch in the filing cabinet..."

Corrie actress Samia Longchambon tweeted "#RestInPeace Johnny Briggs. Really sorry to hear the sad news.

"I have fond memories of working with Johnny, he was such a lovely man."

Coronation Street star Helen Worth, who plays Gail Platt, said: "I am very sorry to hear the sad news.

"I have many happy memories of working together with Johnny. He was one of the street's most memorable characters."

Corrie colleague Sally Dynevor tweeted: "RIP Johnny Briggs. What a wonderful actor he was. Lots of happy memories."

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