Timothy West, the versatile British actor whose career spanned from classical theater to beloved soaps, has died peacefully at 90, leaving behind a legacy that touched generations of viewers and transformed television drama.
Best known to modern audiences for his powerful portrayal of Stan Carter in EastEnders, West brought gravity and nuance to every role he touched. His performance as the cancer-stricken Stan helped break ground in men's health awareness, earning praise from Prostate Cancer UK for "breaking down one of the biggest taboos around men's health."
Away from the intensity of television drama, West found joy in Britain's waterways, becoming a familiar sight along the Kennet and Avon Canal with his wife of 61 years, Prunella Scales. The couple's canal adventures, documented in Channel 4's Great Canal Journeys, showed a tender side to the distinguished actor, with locals often spotting them sharing quiet moments at The Bridge Inn at Horton or chatting with lockkeepers around Devizes.
"He was just lovely," remembered former EastEnders co-star Danny Dyer, who worked closely with West during his time on the show. Their on-screen chemistry helped create some of the soap's most memorable moments, with West bringing his classical training to the gritty world of Albert Square.
His children - Juliet, Samuel and Joseph - announced his passing with profound sadness: "After a long and extraordinary life on and off the stage, our darling father Timothy West died peacefully in his sleep." West leaves behind a rich family legacy, including his beloved wife Prunella, known for her iconic role in Fawlty Towers, seven grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren.
The family expressed heartfelt gratitude to the NHS staff at St George's Hospital, Tooting and Avery Wandsworth, whose care supported West in his final days.
From his memorable turn as Jeremy Lister in Gentleman Jack to his brief but impactful role as Eric Babbage in Coronation Street, West's presence on British television helped shape the medium for over half a century.
He will be missed.
