Peter Heppelthwaite, the actor who became a familiar face to British television audiences through his portrayal of Jed in The Green Green Grass, has died at the age of 59.
The London-born performer passed away on Saturday, June 13, with his death confirmed by his representatives at Apollo Artist Management.
Mr Heppelthwaite was perhaps most recognised for his role in the Only Fools and Horses spin-off, which ran from 2005 to 2009 and saw him appear across 30 episodes.
He also featured in EastEnders during the 1990s, taking on the character of Linal in the BBC soap.
Actor Peter Heppelthwaite has died aged 59
|FACEBOOK/PETER HEPPELTHWAITE
No cause of death has been disclosed, though his daughter's tribute referenced him putting up "the most incredible fight" before his passing.
His agency paid tribute in an emotional statement, describing Mr Heppelthwaite as "a hugely gifted actor, director, teacher and mentor, with a warmth and generosity that reached far beyond the work itself."
Apollo Artist Management said he possessed "that rare ability to make people feel seen, supported and better for having known him."
The company's tribute went on: "Peter gave so much to other performers, especially young actors finding their confidence and their voice."
Peter Heppelthwaite (left) starred in Only Fools spin-off The Green Green Grass
|BBC
His representatives added that while his career spanned television, theatre and film, "his impact was much bigger than a list of credits."
The agency concluded: "He cared deeply, worked tirelessly, and left a mark on everyone lucky enough to cross his path. We feel incredibly proud to have represented him."
Georgia Hewer-Heppelthwaite shared a deeply moving tribute to her father on Facebook, revealing he "passed away peacefully yesterday holding our hands."
She described him as "a man who never gave up, loved deeply, and was just unafraid of doing absolutely everything to the fullest."
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Peter Heppelthwaite also appeared in EastEnders
|FACEBOOK/PETER HEPPELTHWAITE
Her statement continued: "His life was shortened but immensely full of love, passion and determination that we will carry with us always."
Georgia asked those mourning alongside the family not to feel sorry for their loss, writing: "We are beyond lucky to have had Peter Heppelthwaite as our dad."
She encouraged friends and colleagues to share their memories of him, requesting: "Please just share a story about him, something you will remember him for, something we can smile about."
Mr Heppelthwaite trained at the Webber-Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art, graduating in 1999 before landing his debut television appearance in Two Point Four Children.
It comes with great shock and sadness that we have to report of the death of actor Peter Heppelthwaite, Jed from the Only Fools spinoff ‘the green green grass’
— Only Fools and Horses News (@onlyfoolsnews) June 14, 2026
Our heartfelt condolences and warm wishes go out to his family and close friends. pic.twitter.com/kUnGf3zQER
His breakthrough came with The Green Green Grass, where he starred opposite original Only Fools and Horses cast members John Challis and Sue Holderness throughout the sitcom's run.
Beyond his screen work, he built a reputation as a committed theatre practitioner and mentor to aspiring performers.
The actor is survived by three adult children, with fans and colleagues continuing to share tributes and memories across social media.