Soaps

Emmerdale fans say goodbye to late actor Freddie Jones as his character Sandy Thomas dies in soap

He was a popular character and actor

Sad news arrived in Emmerdale this week, following the real life passing of TV legend Freddie Jones last year.

Laurel Thomas heard the sad news that her beloved father-in-law Sandy had died – and tears flowed on and off screen.

It was a week of revelations for Laurel (Credit: ITV)

Read more: Emmerdale SPOILERS: Mark Womack and former Coronation Street star Reece Dinsdale join cast

Viewers will remember Sandy was Laurel’s late husband’s dad, who was involved in a heartbreaking elderly abuse storyline in 2012.

A wonderful gentleman and greatly missed.

Sandy was the father of vicar Ashley, who died of vascular dementia.

We last saw Sandy sending a video message from Australia where he was living out his last days.

Ashley abused his frail dad
Poor Sandy was abused by his son Ashley (Credit: ITV)

Read more: Emmerdale SPOILERS: Liam and Leyla plan to be together

Actor Freddie’s death, at the age of 91, was announced last summer by agent Lesley Duff.

She said: “It is with great sadness that I can confirm the death of Freddie Jones.

“He passed away on the evening of July 9 after a short illness.

“Freddie was a much loved and admired actor, known for his triumphs in classical theatre, film and television. He will be greatly missed by all who had the pleasure of knowing him and most especially his family.”

Emmerdale tribute Freddie Jones
Emmerdale dedicated an episode to Freddie last year (Credit: ITV)

On screen, Laurel was seen getting news of Sandy’s death via a phone call.

Those watching from home, including cast who had starred alongside actor Freddie, shared their memories of the late star.

Katherine Dow Blyton, who plays Harriet in the ITV soap, tweeted: “A wonderful gentleman and greatly missed.”

Kelli Hollis, who played Ali Spencer, added: “Freddie, one of the most amazing gentleman I’ve ever met. Legend.”

A fan added: “An absolute legend, end of!”

Another said: “He really was one of the best, miss him very much.”

“Freddie Jones was a great character actor, he made his subjects so real,” said one more, while another added: “A wonderful character, a true gent.”

Many others sent heart and crying emojis.

Sandy Thomas Freddie Jones last appearance
Freddie Jones’ last appearance as Sandy Thomas in Emmerdale (Credit: ITV)

At the time of Freddie’s death, actor Nick Miles – aka Jimmy King – said: “One of the loveliest men I’ve ever shared a scene or a dressing room with.

“It was a great privilege to work with an actor of his stature. He also gave the most moving speech as he departed Emmerdale, all about love. Sorely missed.”

Freddie’s son Toby followed his dad into acting, and is famous for his performances in The Hunger Games, Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom and Doctor Who.

What is your lasting memory of the actor Freddie Jones? Leave us a comment on our Facebook page @EntertainmentDailyFix and let us know what you think!


Helen Fear
TV Editor

Related Topics