Dean Sullivan, known for his role as Jimmy Corkhill on the long-running Channel 4 program Brookside, passed away at the age of 68.
Despite being initially scheduled for six episodes, Sullivan went on to become the cast member with the longest run on the show, spanning from 1986 to 2003. He died peacefully after a brief illness, according to his representative.
Honored with the British Soap Award for Outstanding Achievement in 2003 for his portrayal of Jimmy, Sullivan continued his career after Brookside, starring in the sitcom Terry Across the Mersey and having a radio show until May 2009. In 2011, he expressed interest in returning to the show or reprising his iconic role in other serial operas. Sullivan also appeared in Doctors on the BBC, Crime Stories, and The Royal on ITV.
His most recent role was in the Netflix short film Wings in 2022. In 2018, Sullivan was diagnosed with prostate cancer, but early detection allowed successful treatment through radiotherapy. Despite facing health challenges, he continued to live life positively.
Sullivan was set to appear in a Southport production of Jack And The Beanstalk but had to withdraw on November 17 due to unforeseen circumstances. The Atkinson Theatre confirmed the change in the lineup, with Mark Paterson taking over the role of Fleshcreep in the pantomime.
