Actor Eric Allan, whose legendary career spanned five decades, has passed away at the age of 85, The Independent reports.
The soap star was best known for portraying Frank Blakey in the hit show “Emmerdale,” which was originally known as “Emmerdale Farm” before it was renamed. Following this, he went on to voice Bert Fry in “The Archers” for 25 years.
Allan died on February 8 and is survived by his wife, Susan, and their two children. He passed away just a month before his 86th birthday.
Fans Pay Tribute To Eric Allan
“Such a legend in the industry. Eric Allan’s contributions to both Emmerdale and The Archers will never be forgotten. His talent and dedication shaped so many memorable moments. Rest in peace,” one person wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter.
“Eric Allan’s 48 years bringing characters to life in Emmerdale and The Archers left a real mark. Sad loss for soap fans everywhere,” another person shared.
“My sincere condolences to his family and friends,” one person posted.
Eric Allan’s Legacy
The beloved soap actor’s career began in 1967, where he appeared in an episode of “The Wednesday Play.” From there, he went on to have guest roles in “Z Cars” and “Barlow.”
But, in 1972, his career truly took off when he landed the role of Frank Blakey on “Emmerdale Farm.” In the show, he was in the soap’s first-ever wedding, getting married to fellow resident Janie Harker, who Diane Grayson played.
In 1974, Allan left “Emmerdale” and moved on to take the role of Bert Fry in “The Archers,” taking over for original actor Roger Hume who passed away.
“His was a handmade world: make do and mend, cobble it up with baling twine, keep stuff for a rainy day,” Eric said in 2021 interview (per the Daily Telegraph). “I always imagined he still had the suit he was married in, 60 years ago. Continuity and resilience were all.”
“He’s the character the production team tend to turn to if the storylines are getting too depressing and a bit of light relief is called for,” he added.
He last appeared in “The Archers” in February 2020.
Along with these two roles, he also had starring roles in “Bleak Moments” and “The Adventure of Sherlock Holmes.” He also played tabloid sports editor opposite David Warner in the BBC series “Hold the Back Page” in 1985. In 1977, he portrayed Les Fox, one of Bet Lynch’s boyfriends, in “Coronation Street.”
