Hywel Bennett dead: EastEnders and Shelley actor dies aged 73
EASTENDERS actor Hywel Bennett has died aged 73.
The Carmathenshire-born star made his name in the long-running sitcom Shelley.
His agent confirmed Hywel had passed away earlier in July.
Soap fans will remember him for his role as Jack Dalton in EastEnders.
He joined the BBC One show as a gangland boss, linked to Dirty Den, who was killed in 2003 by his son Dennis.
Hywel also worked on shows including Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy and Last Of The Summer Wine.
The Welshman hit the big time when the role of James Shelley in the sitcom of the same name.
Viewers fell in love with the highly intelligent layabout, and Hywel quicky became a household name.
During it's peak, Shelley got over 18 million viewers tuning in every week.
After it ended Hywel went on to reprise the role in The Return of Shelley from 1988 to 1992.
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Hywel’s friends and peers paid their tributes to the actor on hearing the news of his passing.
Neil Gaimain said on Twitter: “It was an honour and a privilege to have had you play Mr Croup in the BBC Neverwhere. I loved working with you.”
Jo Haseltine wrote: “So sad to hear that Hywel Bennett died last week. Always loved Shelley but I particularly love the film Twisted Nerve.”
Hywel was married to TV presenter Cathy MGowan and the pair had a daughter, Emma.
Their marriage did not last however and the couple split in 1988.
Hywel retired from acting due to ill health in 2007.
He moved to Kent and is thought to have lived there up until his death.
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