Emmerdale fans were moved as the soap pays an emotional tribute to late star Meg Johnson following her death aged 86
Emmerdale fans were brought to tears when the soap paid tribute to the late actress Meg Johnson during Monday night’s show.
Meg, who played legendary soap opera character Pearl Ladderbanks in 2002, died on July 1 at the age of 86. The family issued a statement over the weekend.
At the end of the episode, a title card appeared on screen next to a photo of the actress with the caption, “Meg Johnson, September 30, 1936 – July 1, 2023.”
Fans of the soap shared their thoughts on Twitter, with one adding: “Nice touch. Rest in everlasting peace, the brilliant Meg Johnson.”
Another person wrote, “That was a lovely tribute to Meg Johnson (Pearl) at the end of tonight’s episode.”
Thoughtful: Emmerdale fans were brought to tears when the soap paid tribute to the late actress Meg Johnson during Monday night’s show (pictured in 2017).
A third posted: “Small photo of Pearl, Meg Johnson. My deepest condolences to her family, friends and colleagues.’
Meg was diagnosed with dementia in the last years of her life, her family said in a statement.
Her death came four months after the death of her husband Charles Foster, a spokesman for ITV Granada, which was announced in February.
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 last night surrounded by her family.”
“Meg was a kind and wonderful woman, full of warmth and always with a wink.”
“Meg had an outstanding career that ended with her role as Pearl in Emmerdale.”
“Meg has been suffering from dementia for the past few years but has continued to struggle both personally and professionally. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.”
On screen: Meg, who played legendary soap opera character Pearl Ladderbanks from 2002, passed away on July 1 at the age of 86. The family issued a statement over the weekend (pictured in 2015).
Fans of the soap shared their thoughts on Twitter, with one adding: “Nice touch rest in eternal peace to the brilliant Meg Johnson.”
Numerous tributes to the actress poured out on social media following the news of her death.
While actress Gemma Oaten – who starred alongside Meg in the soap – wrote: “Sending so much love to the @emmerdale family and the family of the late and great Meg Johnson.”
“A beautiful woman inside and out who was always so kind to me during my #Emmerdale days.” I’m sure Shirley, Freddie, Richard and co will take good care of them up there. RIP, dear Meg x.’
One person said: “Oh no I loved her on Emmerdale and she is currently in the classic episodes.”
Statement: The actress’ death was announced by her family over the weekend in a joint statement with her talent agency Jorg Betts Associates and ITV Emmerdale