Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

Peter Armitage death: Coronation Street actor who played Bill Webster, dies aged 78

'Peter was a much respected and much loved member of the Coronation Street family'

Jack Shepherd
Wednesday 05 December 2018 17:17 GMT
Comments
Peter Armitage of Coronation Street fame
Peter Armitage of Coronation Street fame (Rex Features)

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Peter Armitage, who was best known for playing Bill Webster on Coronation Street, has died aged 78.

The actor first debuted as Kevin Webster's father on the long-running ITV series more than 30 years ago.

Former co-star Charlie Lawson, who plays Jim McDonald on the programme, announced the news on Twitter.

"It's with great sadness, that I've to tell you my great old friend Pete Armitage has died," he wrote. "RIP mate."

No cause of death has been revealed. Armitage went into remission from bowel cancer four years ago.

An ITV spokesperson confirmed the news, saying "Peter was a much respected and much loved member of the Coronation Street family. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this sad time."

Other Coronation Street stars to pay tribute include Simon Gregson (Steve McDonald) and Jane Danson (Leanne Battersby).

Armitage first appeared on the show in 1984 for sixth months, returning once again in 1995. The actor was also known for having parts in the 1988 series Jack the Ripper and 1995 series Hearts and Minds. He is survived by his two children.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in