Corrie and Emmerdale stars lead tributes to 'trailblazer' Kay Mellor following death at 71
17.05.2022 - 15:35
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Tributes have been pouring in following the announcement that iconic writer Kay Mellor has died, aged 71. The news of her death was shared on Tuesday morning (May 17).
The actress, director and writer of prolific TV shows like The Syndicate, Fat Friends, Band Of Gold and more died on May 15, a spokesperson for her TV production company Rollem Productions said.
A statement to the PA news agency said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the untimely and sudden passing of our beloved friend, mentor and colleague Kay Mellor on Sunday May 15 2022. We have lost a phenomenal talent and a true luminary. We ask that you please respect the privacy of the family and friends at this time."
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Mellor and her husband Anthony were married in 1968 and have two daughters, actress Gaynor Faye, and television producer Yvonne Francas. Many will recognise Gaynor for roles in Corrie and Emmerdale, as well as Fat Friends and more recently The Syndicate.
Lisa Riley, who played Rebecca Patterson in Fat Friends in series two to four and stars as Mandy Dingle in Emmerdale, described Mellor as "the best boss". She said on Twitter after the sad news broke: "DEAREST KAY REST IN PEACE……..
"What a massive shock to hear this news, you have been taken far far far to young. You were the best boss to work for, you embraced all that is good about our industry, believing in talent."
Former Emmerdale actor and I’m a Celebrity … Get Me Out of Here! winner Danny Miller also paid tribute to Mellor, tweeting that she was: “An incredible talent in the TV world and someone who always had a warming smile on offer with open arms. Sending all of my love to