Fred Elliot actor John Savident’s heartbreak over ITV Coronation Street exit after 12 years

Coronation Street Fred Elliot actor John Savident was heartbroken when he left the ITV soap after 12 years as he hoped show bosses would change their mind on the decision

Fred Elliot star John Savident admitted he wasn’t certain on his decision to leave the soap (

Image: Granada Television)

John Savident shared his heartbreak over his time as Fred Elliot in Coronation Street coming to an end.

The actor was reluctant to leave the ITV soap after starring as Fred from 1994 until his departure in 2006. His death was announced on Friday aged 86 as a statement from his agent said: “We are sad to announce the death of the actor John Savident who died on Wednesday 21 February, he was a much-loved husband and father of two and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.”

John decided to step away from the soap in 2006 to spend more time with his family in Hertfordshire. However, he later revealed he would have wanted to stick with the role if he was given a lighter workload. He admitted: “I did think they might find some way to accommodate me.”

“Quite honestly I was surprised and disappointed that they didn’t try a bit harder,” he added to The People. “I told them a year in advance that I was going and then they took me out for dinner and said, ‘We’re not going to insult you, John, by trying to make you stay’. And I’m sitting there thinking, ‘Please, go on, insult me’.”

John played Fred Elliot for 12 years (

Image:

Granada Television)

John became a fan-favourite on Corrie with his storylines involving his disastrous love life, including three marriages and several failed proposals. A secret son, Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold), also arrived on the show and the two later developed a close bond as they worked as butchers together.

Despite leaving, John did make an unexpected return in 2020 leaving some viewers “baffled”. haron Geary could be heard calling Adam Barlow, Fred Elliot, while talking to Gary Windass. She said: “Fred Elliot has been here batting his eyelashes at Laura.” A puzzled Gary asked: “Fred Elliot?” She responded: “Good looking bloke in the suit, hair. Scottish.” “You mean Adam Barlow,” he corrected.

Tributes have poured in for the soap icon following the news of his death. ITV Executive Producer for Continuing Drama Iain MacLeod said: “Everyone at Coronation Street is deeply saddened to learn of John Savident’s death. As Fred Elliott, John firmly established himself in the pantheon of Coronation Street greats. His peerless comic timing, combined with a deep pathos arising from his outstanding dramatic skill, made Fred an unforgettable, iconic character that provided great joy to viewers for many years.

“On behalf of everyone here, I would like to extend condolences to John’s family and close friends at this sad time.” Screenwriter Daran Little added: “Oh darling John Savident. So many happy memories forever in my heart. Rest in peace my friend, Big D xx,” while sharing a snap of the pair. After leaving the soap, John kept a low profile with his last credit being Gary Brennan in the 2019 production of The Life and Times of Mim Stewart.

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