Who was Tony Peers? All about ‘Coronation Street’ veteran actor who died at 78

Representational image (Image via Unsplash/@Christian Harb)
Representational image (Image via Unsplash/@Christian Harb)

Coronation Street actor Tony Peers has died at the age of 78.

The Wigan-born stand-up star was known for his recurring appearances on the ITV soap. He portrayed a delivery guy, junk dealer, and Gary Mallet’s father, Peter. His company, Tony Peers Ltd, confirmed his demise in a statement on Wednesday, Mirror has reported:

"It is with great sadness that we announce that Scarborough showbiz legend Tony Peers has taken his final bow. Our wonderful producer, manager and friend sadly fell asleep for the last time in the early hours of this morning. All at Tony Peers Limited are devastated by this news and in Tony’s words 'the show must go on.' We will be continuing to lead all future productions and keeping Tony’s pantomime legacy alive across the country for years to come."

Tony Peers' life and legacy explored

The Daily Mail has reported that Tony also made several appearances on Emmerdale over the years. These included roles such as a character named Bryan Dodds and as a construction worker. He was also a stand-up comedian on the side and made guest appearances on shows such as Heartbeat and Last Of The Summer Wine.

Scarborough Spa, where several of his productions were held, has also issued a statement that reads as follows:

'Everyone at the Scarborough Spa is saddened to hear of the passing of Tony Peers. Tony, who was involved in over 2,500 shows at the Spa as a performer, director, and latterly as producer of the famous Spa summer shows and Christmas pantomimes, passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by family and friends.'

Tony began his career in the entertainment industry in the 1960s. He operated entertainment at the Butlins Grand Hotel by the 1980s. By 1999, he launched his own eponymous company, which hosted several summer shows and pantomimes.

Back in 2018, he spoke with The Scarborough News about how, when he landed a role on Coronation Street, his mother was overjoyed. She even took the TV Times up to her neighbours to show his name off in the credits.

"My mum came to see me and cried all the way home from Minehead to Liverpool. She said to my father ‘He’ll never make a living doing this; he’s a big, daft lad and he’s got no talent.'" However, she was "proud as punch" when, four years later, he began hosting his weekly Friday night show. "She said, 'That's my lad, you know, my lad that.'"

Tony had been with his partner, Glenda, for 35 years before he died.

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Edited by Ritika Pal