Emmerdale legend Meg Johnson dies aged 86 after being diagnosed with dementia – as her family pay tribute to the ‘kind and wonderful’ star 4 months after the death of her husband
Emmerdale actress Meg Johnson has died aged 86.
Meg, who played iconic soap character Pearl Ladderbanks from 2002, had been diagnosed with dementia in her final years, say her family.
Meg’s passing comes four months after the death of her husband Charles Foster, who was an ITV Granada announcer, which was announced in February.Â
The actress’ death was announced by her family in a joint statement with her talent agency Jorg Betts Associates and ITV Emmerdale.
The statement read: ‘It is with great sadness that we announce that actress Meg Johnson passed away peacefully yesterday evening surrounded by her family.
News: Emmerdale actress Meg Johnson has died aged 86
Tragic:Â Meg’s passing comes four months after the death of her husband Charles Foster, who was an ITV Granada announcer, which was announced in February
‘Meg was a kind and wonderful lady, full of warmth and always with a twinkle in her eye.Â
‘Meg had an outstanding career that ended with her playing Pearl in Emmerdale.
‘Meg had dementia for the last few years, but battled on personally and professionally regardless. She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her.’
Tributes to the actress flooded in from fans on social media following the news of her death.
One person said: ‘Oh no, I loved her on Emmerdale and she’s currently in the classic episodes.’
Another said: ‘Heartbreaking news. Thinking of Meg’s family and friends at this sad time thank you for legendary Pearl she was a fantastic character.’
A third wrote: ‘So heartbreaking I loved her in Emmerdale as Peal. She’ll be sorely missed RIP Meg.’
One other, wrote: ‘RIP Meg, she was a wonderful actress and was fabulous as Pearl. Always glamorous, and always had heart. Lovely lady, my thoughts are with her family.’
Before joining Emmerdale, Meg also starred in Coronation Street first in a few guest appearances as a character called Brenda Holden, before being cast as Eunice Gee in 1981.
This is a breaking news story, more to follow.
Reaction:Â Tributes to the actress flooded in from fans on social media following the news of her death
