Splashnews.com/ Shutterstock Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Natasha Rigler 15 May 2026, 11:05 By Natasha Rigler 15 May 2026, 11:05 'So sad' Emmerdale star Lisa Riley shares emotional tribute to former co-star Alan Rothwell as he dies aged 89 Alan died in hospital this week Share Add as preferred source on Google Add as preferred source on Google By Natasha Rigler 15 May 2026, 11:05 By Natasha Rigler 15 May 2026, 11:05 Emmerdale actress Lisa Riley has paid tribute to her former co-star Alan Rothwell following his death. Alan starred alongside Lisa in Emmerdale, playing John Kenyon, in the late 90s. The pair – who were both raised in Oldham, Greater Manchester – also worked together on the hit ITV show, Fat Friends. Emmerdale star Lisa Riley has paid tribute to Alan Rothwell following his death (Credit: ITV) Lisa has now shared an emotional tribute to Alan, who sadly died yesterday (Thursday May 14, 2026) aged 89. Lisa Riley pays tribute to Alan Rothwell Taking to Instagram, Lisa – aka Mandy Dingle to Emmerdale fans – posted a photograph of Alan. article continues below Read all the latest spoilers Alongside it, she wrote: “Dearest Alan, may you shine down from heaven. Rest in peace. “I loved working with you-you put Oldham on the map all those years ago – paved the ways for us lot. “You were always the truest meaning of GENTLEMEN.”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. Lisa’s followers have been quick to reply, with one writing: “Sad news indeed , may he rest in peace.” Another posted a crying emoji and penned: “Oh this is so sad.” And a third added: “Beautiful Human! RIP Alan.” Others have shared their childhood memories of the actor on the small screen. Many recall watching Alan host the ITV schools programme, Picture Box. He presented show from 1968 to 1989. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lisa Riley (@lisajaneriley) “Ahh I remember at school they used to bring out a TV on very tall legs on wheels and we would watch Picture Box , I looked forward to this I can still remember the tune and a little box turning round on the introduction,” someone said. And another wrote: “Oh my this is so sad what a lovely man’s with such a soothing presence and voice loved everything he did. Picture Box was one of my fondest memories as a child. RIP Alan you will be fondly thought of by many .” ‘Fondly remembered and deeply missed’ Alan’s death was confirmed by his family last night. They explained how he had “died peacefully” in hospital. “Beyond his professional achievements, he was a loving husband, father, grandfather and uncle,” Alan’s family said. “He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.” Alan will also be remembered for playing Nicholas Black in Brookside during the 80s. Meanwhile, Coronation Street fans will know him as David Barlow in the 60s. He also starred in the 70s children’s show Hickory House. Read more: What time is Emmerdale on tonight? Get all schedule details plus ITVX changes here 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 15 May 2026, 11:05 By Natasha Rigler 15 May 2026, 11:05 Next Story
