'I will love her forever'
The Royle Family’s Ricky Tomlinson remembers dear friend Caroline Aherne on GMB
RICKY Tomlinson remembered his dear friend Caroline Aherne during an emotional appearance on Wednesday's Good Morning Britain.
During a live interview from his home in Liverpool, the outspoken funnyman told presenters Piers Morgan and Susanna Reid he'll "love her forever," after she passed away in July at 52 following her third battle with cancer.
5
Ricky starred alongside Caroline, who played his on-screen daughter, on The Royle Family from 1998-2012, where they formed a close bond.
He said: “It was absolutely awful and I’m so glad I didn’t know she had cancer. I only found out the morning she died when I got a phone call.
“She was wonderful and brave, she never told anyone or complained and she was fabulous. I will love her forever.”
5
Ricky also caused controversy during the appearance, saying: “Why didn’t she have a state funeral? Everyone loved her.
“We had a state funeral for Margaret Thatcher and everyone hated her.”
Although many viewers took to Twitter to praise the “brilliant” comment from the "legend," one user said: “Ricky Tomlinson who do you think you are - you don't speak for everyone. Keep your politics to yourself.”
5
As Susanna looked taken back by the comment, Piers said: “It wouldn’t be a good Ricky interview without a comment like that!”
Susanna added: “Without a controversial political statement at the end.”
Ending the segment, Piers concluded: “Ricky, you’re a very naughty boy, go and have a cup of tea.”
5
Related stories
Shortly after her death, Ricky said: "I’m so bloody shocked. She was absolutely wonderful and amazing to work for. Kind, funny, witty.
"A true professional and one of the most generous people I ever worked with.
"She never talked about her health, ever. I can never ever remember her complaining.
"She must have gone through a lot but I never saw her looking unwell."
5
Got a story? email [email protected] or call us direct on 02077824220
Topics