Splashnews.com Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Natasha Rigler 23 Mar 2026, 10:03 By Natasha Rigler 23 Mar 2026, 10:03 Emmerdale actor Ben Keaton dies 'suddenly' age 69 as tributes for the TV star pour in His death was 'very sudden', according to his ex-wife Polly Emmerdale Features News Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Natasha Rigler 23 Mar 2026, 10:03 By Natasha Rigler 23 Mar 2026, 10:03 Emmerdale actor Ben Keaton has died aged 69, it has been confirmed. Ben’s family announced the news of his death, adding that he will be “forever greatly missed”. The actor’s ex wife Polly, who was on good terms with Ben, has also said the TV star’s death was “very sudden”. Emmerdale actor Ben Keaton has died ‘suddenly’ aged 69 (Credit: YouTube/ Ben Keaton) Ben, who also starred in Casualty, The Bill and Father Ted, died in Lincoln County Hospital on Friday. Confirming the sad news, his family said in a death announcement: “Ben will be forever greatly missed, loved and fondly remembered by his ex-wife Polly, son Waldo and daughter Daisy, brothers Des and Thom, sister Jeanette.” article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Polly, meanwhile, wrote on Facebook on Saturday: “So incredibly sorry to say Ben Keaton died last night. It was very sudden and we are all in shock. “We had separated several years ago but we had half a lifetime together and infuriated and made each other cry with laughter in equal measure.” Ben Keaton dies ‘suddenly’ Ben’s real name was Benjamin K Burke-Kennedy, however he used Ben Keaton as a stage name.Don't miss a single story! Add us as a Preferred Source in Google for all your Emmerdale newsIt's important to us that you never miss our articles when searching for stories! We have all the latest TV news & schedules to share with our community of loyal readers. Click here and tick TVGuide.co.uk to ensure you see stories from us first in Google Search. He began his career in the theatre before moving into film and television. Ben’s first high profile TV role was as Father Austin Purcell in the Channel 4 sitcom, Father Ted. He later reprised the role for the web series, Cook Like a Priest. Casualty fans will remember him for his portrayal of Spencer. He had an extended run in the BBC medical drama, playing the healthcare assistant from 1999 to 2002. Ben later landed his role in Emmerdale. He took on the character Jeff Brannigan in 2007, husband of Sue Brannigan and father to daughter Rita. Heartfelt tributes to Ben have now begun to pour in following the news of his death. The Nottingham Playhouse released a statement, saying: “We are so sorry to hear of the death of Ben Keaton, a wonderful actor who is fondly remembered in our 2008 production of Vertigo. “Sending our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.” Casualty fans will remember Ben as Spencer in the medical drama (Credit: YouTube/ BBC) ‘Heartbreaking loss’ A Father Ted fan account, meanwhile, posted on X: “Saddened to hear of the passing of actor Ben Keaton. “We knew him as Father Austin Purcell (one of my favourite one-off characters). He was a regular at ComicCon events, so I imagine many got to meet him over the years. “My thoughts are with his family, friends, and many fans.” Another fan wrote: “A sudden and heartbreaking loss. Ben Keaton will be remembered for the laughter and memories he gave to so many.” And someone else added: “Sorry to read about the death of Ben Keaton, a performer I greatly enjoyed. “Fond memories of Ben and Andy Smart doing Impro late night at the @rxtheatre. Love to @pollykeaton and family.” Read more: Who’s leaving Emmerdale in 2026? A complete guide to departures, returns and new arrivals in the Dales Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google Good to Know Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Natasha Rigler 23 Mar 2026, 10:03 By Natasha Rigler 23 Mar 2026, 10:03 Previous Story Next Story
