Hollyoaks legend James Redmond reveals family tragedy as dad dies in his sleep
HOLLYOAKS legend James Redmond has revealed his father has died.
The actor, 51, took to social media to announce the heartbreaking news.
James told fans that his father passed away in his sleep as he paid tribute to him.
He told said: "Dad drifted off yesterday, in his sleep, after a 4 1/2 year battle with Motor Neurone Disease.
"I said goodbye a week ago and he was asking after my friends, cracking jokes and flirting with his nurses but was ready to go.
"He was my hero, such a happy, warm and generous man."
James finished his touching tribute with a quote from his late father: “Always be kind and try to do a good deed every day."
Fans flooded his replies with sympathy, with one writing: "Sending love - he was the best ever hand holder."
A second said: "Sorry for your loss James. Sending much love."
"Lots of love to you. I hope your family are coping and my love is with you. Heaven will have a hoot now, I'm sure," said a third.
While a fourth wrote: "Oh mate, I know that disease it’s a cruel one . That’s for sharing Bill with us, so much love to you."
James played Rory 'Finn' Finnigan in Hollyoaks between 1997 and 2002.
In 2013, James returned to star in the sixth series of Hollyoaks Later and also turned up for Tony's wedding to Diane during the show's 20th anniversary celebrations in 2015.
James also appeared in BBC One's Casualty as Abs Denham from 2003 to 2008 and again in 2016.