His character on soap was killed in 2019 in an emotional storyline. Dot Cotton, his best friend, died in his arms.
EastEnders Leonard Fenton, actor, has passed away at 95.
Leonard is best remembered for his role as Walford’s original doctor, Dr Harold Legg. He appeared on the BBC soap every episode from 1985 until his death in 2019.
His family released the following statement: “The family of actor Leonard Fenton is heartbroken to report his death at 95 on Saturday, January 29.”
Leonard is best known for his role in EastEnders’ Dr Legg. His acting career spans more than 60 years.It said, “He worked in TV & Film and his long stage career included stints at the National Theatre and the Royal Shakespeare Company.
“He felt privileged to work with some of theatre’s greatest actors, such as Samuel Beckett and Orson Welles.
The statement concluded that “His passion for singing and painting predated his acting career, and was equally important to him.” His family will miss him beyond words.
“We are so grateful to have been there for him during his final days of health, a privilege that is not afforded to many people in these difficult times.
A spokesperson for EastEnders said: “We are deeply saddened that Leonard has died.
“Since his appearance in the first EastEnders episode, Leonard created a character that will be forever remembered as Doctor Legg. Our thoughts and prayers are with Leonard’s loved ones.
His acting career spanned more than fifty years. He appeared in 267 episodes of EastEnders.
Leonard and Madeline Thorner (cellist) had four children together.
The actor’s death was marked by the EastEnders Twitter account, which posted: ‘Dr Harold Legg. A #EastEnders icon since the first episode. For his amazing presence throughout the years, we salute Leonard Fenton. #EastEnders.’
June Brown, Leonard’s best friend on screen, stated in a statement that she first met Leonard when she joined EastEnders in 1985 as Dot Cotton, his hypochondriac patients.
“He was charming in every way, both as a person, and as an actor. He was polite, kind, and a great guy.
“I loved working with him immensely for many years, and I missed him when he retired. I was happy to be there for his final scene with Dot at his side, and my thoughts are with his loving family.
Natalie Cassidy, who plays Sonia Fowler, said that he was a pleasure to work alongside. He was charming and joking with me all the time. We also enjoyed talking about his past.
“I am honored that we crossed paths. My thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.
Gillian Taylforth (Kathy Beale), said that she was so sorry to hear about Leonard’s passing. He was a charming, kind man who always shared the most amazing stories.
“I send my condolences and love to his family. RIP dear Leonard.
Leonard’s character was killed by EastEnders 2019 in 2019. The emotional storyline saw him lose his battle against pancreatic cancer.
Harold was back in Albert Square to celebrate his last moments with Dot Cotton, his longtime friend.
Dot saw Dr Legg’s frailty and realized that the end was near when he was brought back into the square.
As Harold passed away, Harold and Harold shared touching moments. The doctor held Harold’s pendant in one hand until his grip became loosening and he died.
June said that Leonard Fenton was a pleasure to work with again after he returned to the show last year.
Leonard was one of the original characters on the show. He played the role of a medical doctor in regular and recurring roles until 1997. After that, he appeared in brief cameos in 2000.
The star, gushing over his unexpected return, said that he was very happy to be back at EastEnders. He also expressed excitement about the prospect of working again with June and the other cast members.
Leonard was born in East London. He studied civil engineering at King’s College London. After World War II, he worked as an army engineer for five years before deciding to become an actor.
Leonard received a scholarship to London’s Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art. He went on to have a long and successful career in acting that spanned over 50 years.
The actor was not only an EastEnders actor, but also appeared in films like Robin Hood Junior (1975), Give My Regards to Broad Street (84), and The Zombie Diaries (2006).
Leonard, 78 years old, made his directorial debut in December 2004 with After Chekhov. It was performed at the Soho Theatre Studio.
