It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of actress Liz Dawn. She was 77 years old.
Dawn, who played the iconic Vera Duckworth on Britain's longest-running show, Coronation Street, died late Monday night after a long battle with emphysema, a lung condition in which the air sacs are damaged.
The actress was surrounded by her family, and they have since released a statement expressing their devastation over their loss.
"She has been the love, light and inspiration in our lives and we are bereft at her passing," read the statement.
Dawn's Coronation Street family also had some words to share about their legendary co-star. They praised for being "such a kind, considerate, and caring friend and colleague."
"She was a wonderful actress who will forever be a true Coronation Street legend," they added.
Dawn starred as dramatic, but funny and lovable Vera on the soap from 1974 to 2008, before her character was killed off. Her final episode was viewed by more than 12 million people.
It wouldn't be a soap, if a character didn't make a dramatic comeback somehow. So in 2010 Dawn returned to Coronation Street to play her own ghost in an episode.
Not only did Dawn leave a huge mark on the entertainment industry, she also had a massive impact on her community and people around her. In 2000, she was awarded the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (MBE), which is given to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the arts and sciences, charity and public service.
The actress and her on screen partner, Jack, were immortalized in wax by Madame Tussauds in 2014.
Since news of Dawn's death, her fellow celebrities, inlcuding her former castmates began to post tributes on social media.
"Liz Dawn was a true Coronation Street legend, a brilliant actor and a wonderful person," said Kieran Roberts, Coronation Street's executive producer.
Her co-stars like Antony Cotton and Kevin Kennedy, who played Curly Watts on the show, also had some nice words to say.
Cotton described Dawn as "a wonderful actress, a fascinating storyteller, a hilarious comedian and most importantly a brilliant friend," and Kennedy spoke about her sense of humor.
Liz Dawn made me laugh every time I was was with her , that will be my everlasting memory of her sleep well kid
— Kevin Kennedy (@mrkevkennedy) September 26, 2017
Actress Kym Marsh and actor Jimi Mistry also echoed Roberts and Cotton's sentiments.
Just heard the terrible news of our lovely Liz Dawns passing. I'm so sad. What a wonderful lady. She will be so missed. Love to her family x
— Kym Marsh (@msm4rsh) September 26, 2017
Very sad to hear of Liz Dawn's Passing thoughts to family & friends #corrielegend
— Jimi Mistry (@JimiMistry) September 26, 2017
Other public figures like Labor MP Tracy Brabin also made some remarks about Dawn's legacy.
"She was a legend and an icon, an incredible person to work with," Brabin told BBC. "Deeply authentic, a natural comedian and a heart as big as Manchester."
Dawn's health had been on a steady decline over the last few years. On top of her emphysema, she suffered a minor heart attack. Due to her illness, the actress scaled back on her public appearances leading up to her death.
Dawn is survived by her four children, six grandchildren and three great grandchildren.
Rest in peace, Dawn. You will be deeply missed by many.
