Love Actually star Martine McCutcheon has thanked fans for their support after announcing on Tuesday, October 11 that her younger brother, LJ, had passed away in a heartbreaking tribute on Instagram. The actor and singer, 46, said that Laurence John - known as LJ - died "suddenly" a few weeks ago, aged just 31 and that there was "no medical explanation" for his death.
Later in the day, the former EastEnders actress wrote on Instagram Stories: “Thank you for your amazing messages of love and support regarding the loss of my brother LJ,” accompanied by a black heart emoji. “They mean the world to me,” she confirmed.
Continuing, she described how she was keen to “share a true and fitting tribute to LJ’s life" before any speculation. She said: “However LJ has a whole family grieving, and whilst I had to address it, we do also need time to grieve,” adding that they would not be issuing further comment at this current time.
Read more: Martine McCutcheon says ditching 'crazy diets' led to her remarkable weight loss
In her poignant earlier Instagram post, which accompanied a photo of the siblings together, Martine shared that her younger brother was due to get married and had asked her to be bridesmaid at the wedding, due to take place in November.
She wrote: "My heart is forever broken…My baby brother, my gentle giant, sadly passed away, suddenly, 2 weeks ago. He was 31 years old. There is no medical explanation as to why we lost him so soon and whilst we investigate further, we are having to accept that nothing will bring our boy back to us. L.J (Laurence John) was born when I was 15 years old and from the moment I first held him in my arms, I felt so proud and fiercely protective of him. He was such a character! He made us all laugh and loved nothing more than making a plan, having a great play list, bringing people together and generally having a giggle."
Martine said she was "scared to live" without her brother but added she would live life to the full in his memory. She added: "I was asked to be bridesmaid and the last time I saw him, was a few days before he passed. He, Jack (her husband) and his future stepson had been to try on their wedding suits and then they came back to have dinner with his fiancée and the family to see our new home. He looked so tanned, tall and handsome. The best I've ever seen him. Ironic really."
Martine concluded by writing: "My heart aches for all who have lost him. But my heart breaks for our mum, his dad John and his step parents. You should never outlive your children. I'm scared to live without you LJ but I know you will want us to truly live, laugh and love in your memory. I will try I promise".
The star was inundated with messages of condolence underneath her post as fans and friends reached out. Sheridan Smith said: "Oh I am so sorry Martine." and Myleene Klass added: "Martine. My heart is utterly broken for you. I am so very sorry." EastEnders co-star Tamzin Outhwaite said: "Oh darling i am so sorry. Sending love and lightning."
READ NEXT:
BBC Strictly's Claudia addresses 'awkward' Movie Week opener
I'm A Celebrity 2022 drops first teaser trailer as ITV show returns to Australia
Love Island's Adam Collard shares cryptic post following Paige Thorne split fears
Married At First Sight UK groom 'blindsided' as couple leave experiment in final commitment ceremony
The One Show's Alex Jones shares autumn 'jumpsuit of dreams' details
