Claire Sweeney speaks out after on-screen dad and Brookside legend Dean Sullivan dies

Claire Sweeney has paid tribute to her former co-star Dean Sullivan after he died yesterday at the age of 68. The pair worked together on the Channel 4 soap opera, Brookside.

The Coronation Street actress broke her silence on Instagram with a number of emotional snaps – one showing her on the set of Brookside, and another with Dean and Sue Jenkins at the British Soap Awards.

She penned: “Gonna miss you Dean. So glad we got to be together as a family again at the soap awards. RIP Dean Sullivan #jimmycorkhill.”

The actor joined the soap in 1986 and became one of the most recognisable characters; earning two British Soap awards, including a special recognition award.

Claire played Jimmy’s daughter Lindsey Corkhill in Brookside, while Sue Jenkins played Jimmy’s wife Jackie.

A statement from Dean’s family confirmed the tragic news on Thursday: “It is with deep sadness we must tell you that actor Dean Sullivan passed away on 29th November 2023 peacefully following a short illness.

“To millions he was and very much still is remembered as ‘Jimmy’, to family and friends he was ‘Dino’. Dean’s family wants to thank Arrowe Park Hospital for their unwavering and consistent support. We ask that you respect their privacy in their time of grief.”

Dean was due to appear in a production of Jack and The Beanstalk from December 7 in Southport, but had to pull out due to “unforseen circumstances.”

The Atkinson Theatre confirmed his departure in a tweet: “There has been a change to the line-up for this year’s Jack and the Beanstalk pantomime.

“Dean Sullivan will no longer be performing in the role of Fleshcreep, as previously advertised and the role will now be played by Mark Paterson.”