Hit TV soap opera Eastenders has paid tribute to one of its most iconic stars, who sadly died this week. June Brown, best known for her role as chain-smoking character Dot Cotton, died at the age of 95 at her home in Surrey on Sunday with her family by her side.
Since the news came out, many have paid their tributes to the icon, including the soap opera that made her a household name. At the end of Eastenders' Monday episode, a tribute was paid to the actress that read: "In loving memory of June Brown OBE, MBE 1927-2022".
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Earlier on in the day, a spokesperson for the London-based TV show said that she would never be forgotten. They added: “There are not enough words to describe how much June was loved and adored by everyone at EastEnders, her loving warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten.
"June created one of the most iconic characters in Dot Cotton, not just in soap but in British television, and having appeared in 2,884 episodes, June’s remarkable performances created some of EastEnders’ finest moments. “We send all our love and deepest sympathies to June’s family and friends. A very bright light has gone out at EastEnders today but we shall all be raising a sweet sherry in June’s memory. Rest in peace, our dearest June. You will never be forgotten."
Following tonight's episode, the BBC aired June Brown at 50: A Walford Legend, which was initially shown in 2017. During the show, Eastenders co-star, Rudolph Walker who plays Patrick Trueman in the TV show, spoke of his admiration for the actress. He said: "She is a lady of immense experience. She's a lady of the world... Getting to 90 in this industry is something remarkable... You know she is just an amazing... an amazing lady".
Actress, Natalie Cassidy, added: "It's very difficult to talk about Dot without thinking of June. You just can't imagine Dot Cotton as anybody else really."
Gillian Taylforth, who plays Kathy Beale, said: "She made that character. Everything you see is what June added herself. All those little bits like the cigarette... and the way the curl came in her hair - that's what she wanted."
