BBC EastEnders' legend heartbroken over 'hero and role model' father's death

EastEnders legend Ross Kemp, 61, who has played Grant Mitchell in the long-running BBC soap on and off since 1990, has announced the death of his father John at the age of 88 in a heartbreaking social media post paying tribute to his "hero and role model". Taking to Instagram, he posted a picture of his dad at the beach and wrote: "John Kemp 1937 - 2025. Served his country, served his community, served his family. My hero. Love you always, Dad."

In a separate post announcing the funeral, he shared a black and white image of John taken during his time serving in the army. "Burying my Dad, tomorrow. My hero, my role model and a great dancer!" he wrote. Prior to retirement John Kemp was a detective superintendent in the Metropolitan Police.

His EastEnders co-stars rushed to offer their support and condolences in the comments. Patsy Palmer, who is known for playing Bianca Butcher in the show, simply wrote: "Sending love to you & your family."

Max Bowden, who recently returned to the role of Ben Mitchell for a couple of episodes, penned: "All the best mate, very sorry for your loss."

Emma Barton, who plays Honey Mitchell commented: "Sending love Ross," accompanied by heart emojis. Diane Parish, who joined the show as Denise Fox in 2006, chimed in: "So sorry for your loss."

The show's longest serving cast member Adam Woodyatt, who plays Ian Beale, posted a series of love-heart emojis to show his support. Meanwhile James Farrar, who is currently playing Zach Hudson shared: "Mate what beautiful words. For a beautiful bloke."

Ros most recent return to EastEnders came in February this year as part of the soap's 40th anniversary celebrations.

Grant made a comeback to help his brother Phil Mitchell (Steve McFadden), who was struggling with his mental health. It marked his first return since 2016.

Ahead of his brief stint, Ross said: "I'm delighted to be returning to EastEnders as the show heads towards its 40th anniversary. EastEnders has always meant so much to me, so to return as the show is about to celebrate such a special anniversary, is an absolute honour.

WGrant has never been far from the action and let's just say, this time is no different as he certainly comes back with a bang."