Coronation Street icon Philip Lowrie has sadly died at the age of 88 after a long stint playing Dennis Tanner in the ITV soap. Philip was one of the original cast members when the soap started in 1960, and returned to continue his romance with Rita decades later. Now his publicist Mario Renzullo has confirmed the news of his death to ITV News.

His statement read: "My client and very dear friend, Philip Lowrie, the beloved actor renowned for his role as Dennis Tanner on Coronation Street, passed away yesterday at 88. His death marks the end of an era for the world’s longest-running soap, where he became a cornerstone of its storytelling."

The Cheshire born star appeared in 673 episodes of the soap over the years, with his last appearance being in 2014. He was also known for roles in everything from Rules of Engagement to Casualty, and appeared alongside Victoria Wood for episodes of her sketch show.

He was just 24 years old when he first joined the soap in 1960, staying on the ITV cobbles until 1968 as Elsie Tanner's on-screen son. He returned in 2011 for three years, claiming the Guinness World Record for the longest gap between TV appearances as the same character in the same programme.

The actor confessed at the time: "I’ve always been proud to have been a member of the original cast of Coronation Street. Now I’m doubly proud to be honoured in the Guinness World Records book."

The actor also issued a statement on continuing to act later in life, explaining to Inside Soap in 2011: “I do hope [I can stay in Corrie], I'm having the best time of my life. I live in London, but now I work here in Manchester for a few days a week, so I have the best of both worlds.

"At my time of life, to have a job that I love so much and getting to play such an amazing part, is fantastic. I can't believe my luck, to be quite frank with you."

Tributes have been flooding in for the star, with one fan writing on X: "So sad to hear about the death of Philip Lowrie who played Dennis Tanner in Coronation Street. He appeared in the very first episode of the show nearly 65 years ago."

Another posted: "Saddened to hear of the passing of Philip Lowrie. Dennis Tanner was a rogue and I always hoped he’d return to #Corrie. Dennis lives on, I am sure, as his death off-screen in 2020 is bound to be another of Dennis’ scams! RIP to a Coronation St. original."