Peter Heppelthwaite, the actor best known for his roles in EastEnders and the Only Fools and Horses spin-off The Green Green Grass, has died at the age of 59. The London-born performer passed away on June 13, 2026, as confirmed by his agents at Apollo Artist Management. No cause of death has been disclosed.
Tributes from Agents and Family
In a heartfelt statement, Apollo Artist Management expressed their grief: 'We are heartbroken to share the sad news that our wonderful client and friend, Peter Heppelthwaite, passed away yesterday. Peter was a hugely gifted actor, director, teacher and mentor, with a warmth and generosity that reached far beyond the work itself.'
His daughter, Georgia Hewer-Heppelthwaite, also shared a moving tribute: 'After the most incredible fight, our epic dad, Peter Heppelthwaite, passed away peacefully yesterday holding our hands. Everyone who knows dad will know that this is a man who never gave up, loved deeply, and was just unafraid of doing absolutely everything to the fullest.'
Career Highlights
Heppelthwaite's first television role came in Two Point Four Children after graduating from the Webber Douglas Academy of Dramatic Art in 1999. He later appeared in the BBC soap EastEnders as Linal in the 1990s. However, his most famous role was as Jedd in The Green Green Grass, where he starred alongside Sue Holderness and John Challis for 30 episodes.
Fans Pay Respects
Fans of Only Fools and Horses have taken to social media to pay tribute. One wrote: 'It comes with great shock and sadness that we have to report the death of actor Peter Heppelthwaite, Jed from the Only Fools spin-off The Green Green Grass. Our heartfelt condolences and warm wishes go out to his family and close friends.'
Heppelthwaite also appeared in the sitcom Coupling and worked extensively in theatre and film. His agents noted that he was not only a talented performer but also a dedicated teacher and mentor, particularly to young actors.
