Emmerdale actor Chris Coghill has shared the heartbreaking news of his best friend's passing, delivering a raw and emotional tribute on social media. The star, famous for playing Robert Sugden's prison husband Kev Townsend on the ITV soap, revealed that his "oldest mate in the world" died on June 17 after a brutal battle with cancer.
A Life Fully Lived
In a poignant post, Coghill wrote: "My oldest mate in the world passed away last night after a truly cruel ending to a life fully f***ing lived. This isn't a sympathy post. It's a warning / gentle reminder. Friends are the family you choose. I had some of the very best times of my life with this kid but we'd drifted apart over the last few years which is what life does when you're busy not looking."
He added that he was fortunate to reconnect with his friend in recent months, saying: "I was lucky enough to get the chance to put that right in the last few months and be there for him at the end."
A Powerful Message Against Cancer
Coghill concluded his tribute with a fierce condemnation of the disease: "True friendship is like love. It's always there but sometimes at the back of your mind. Try not to forget. Love is all. F***, and I cannot stress this enough, CANCER."
The actor accompanied the post with a throwback selfie of the pair, arms around each other, smiling together. The post quickly drew support from fans and colleagues.
Support from Co-Stars
Emmerdale co-star Mark Charnock, who plays Marlon Dingle, expressed his condolences: "I'm so very sorry, Chris." Michelle Hardwick, known as Vanessa Woodfield, echoed: "Sorry to read this Chris, much love to you." Nicola Stephenson, who played Tess Harris, also posted: "Oh lovely Nicky! Oh god Stacks, I'm so sorry."
