EastEnders’ Shaun Williamson pays moving tribute to ‘second father’ Tony Caunter after his death
Caunter was a firm fixture as Roy Evans on the BBC soap from 1994 to 2003, introduced as a love interest and later husband for the iconic Pat Butcher, played by Pam St Clement.
His family announced the news in a statement yesterday, confirming he ‘died peacefully.’
‘It is with enormous sadness that we bring the curtain down on our wonderful and hugely loved father, Tony Caunter, who died peacefully yesterday evening, just eight days after his beloved wife of 63 years, Fran, also passed away.
‘Dad was 88 years old. After a long and fulfilling life on and off screen and stage, Tony leaves a daughter and three sons, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.’
They added he would be ‘missed by all’, having praised how ‘loved’ he was.
‘We would like to thank the NHS staff at Eastbourne District General Hospital for their incredible care during his final hours, and to everyone at Eastbourne Gardens nursing home for the care and compassion they have given dad over the past two months.’
They ended their statement saying they request privacy ‘at this extremely difficult time’.
Roy was introduced on Boxing Day in 1994, with Williamson arriving a day later as his son Barry.
The character was famously pushed off a cliff by Janine Butcher (Charlie Brooks), who mourned his loss by exclaiming: ‘He should’ve worn slip on shoes.’
Shaun pays tribute to his ‘second father’
In a post on Instagram, Williamson said: ‘RIP Tony Caunter. He was like a second father to me and taught me so much about acting and life.
‘A great actor and a great man. I will miss him so much.’
Jack Ryder, who played Jamie Mitchell, commented: ‘A wonderful man and true professional. Sending love Shaun.’
Similar sentiments were shared by Pam St Clement, who said: ‘I am very saddened to hear of Tony’s passing. He was not only a lovely man, but a true gentleman to work with.’
The EastEnders social media pages also added a tribute, uploading a photo of Tony as Roy and writing: ‘It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Tony Caunter.
‘Tony will forever be loved and respected by everyone at EastEnders for his warmth, kindness and humour as well as being greatly remembered by all those at home who instantly took Roy to their hearts.
