Coronation Street star John Savident has left his wife £21,000 in his will, according to Wednesday’s programme.
The actor was known for his powerful voice while playing butcher Fred Elliott in the ITV soap opera.
He died on February 21, aged 86, and a statement said he “will be deeply missed by all who knew him.”
Documents obtained by The sun shows that he left his entire estate to his wife Rona Hopkinson.
They married in 1962 and had two children and several grandchildren.
Coronation Street star John Savident has left his wife £21,000 in his will, according to Wednesday’s programme (pictured in 2012)
The actor was known for his powerful voice while playing butcher Fred Elliott in the ITV soap opera (pictured on the show in 1995).
A statement from his agent to the PA news agency in February said: ‘We are sad to announce the death of actor John Savident, who passed away on Wednesday 21st February. He was a much-loved husband and father of two children and will be deeply missed by all who knew him.’
In 1994, Savident hit the cobbles and quickly became a fan favourite.
Fans remember Fred well because his friend Audrey Roberts (Sue Nicholls) declared her love for him just as he was about to marry Bev Unwin (Susie Blake).
Their stories revolve around their disastrous love lives, including three marriages and several failed proposals.
A secret son, Ashley Peacock (Steven Arnold), also came to the show and the two later developed a close bond while working together as butchers.
Savident’s character died in 2006 after suffering a stroke on the day he was due to marry Bev (Susie Blake). His final episode was watched by 11 million viewers.
The actor is survived by his wife Rona Hopkinson, whom he married in 1961, and their two children.
Iain MacLeod, executive producer of the ITV series, said: “Everyone at Coronation Street is deeply saddened by the death of John Savident. As Fred Elliott, John established himself firmly in the pantheon of Coronation Street greats.
Documents obtained by The Sun show he left his entire estate to his wife Rona Hopkinson (pictured in Wish You Were Here in 2008).
‘His unparalleled comic timing, combined with a deep pathos that arose from his extraordinary dramatic ability, made Fred an unforgettable and iconic character who provided great joy to audiences for many years to come.
‘On behalf of everyone here, I would like to express my condolences to John’s family and close friends at this very sad time.’
His Coronation Street co-star Sue Nicholls said in tribute: “I’m so sad to hear of John’s passing. My memories of working with you, dear John, on the street are a joy and always will be. God bless you and thank you for being in my life. Sending much love to you, your friends and family.”
In addition to his work on Coronation Street, Savident has appeared in a number of stage shows and appeared in programmes such as Holby City and The Bill.
