Former Emmerdale actor Andy Devine, best known for playing Shadrach Dingle, died at the age of 79 after an accidental fall, leaving an estate worth nearly £99,000. He had been living in a caravan in Southport following his retirement from acting.
Career and Character
Andy Devine was one of the longest-running characters in the ITV soap, playing the loveable rogue Shadrach Dingle from March to December 2000 and again from March 2002 until July 2010. He first appeared at his nephew Butch's funeral, where he was so drunk he fell asleep in the church.
Many of Shadrach's storylines revolved around his love of drinking and laziness. However, in 2007, his drinking proved beneficial when he was hiding in the church vestry drinking communion wine and discovered Laurel in labour. With the church doors locked, he rang the bells to get help and stayed with her until her son Daniel was born.
Death and Aftermath
Shadrach was killed off in July 2010 after collapsing into a river and drowning while trying to retrieve dropped beer cans. Andy had decided to retire at 68, though he returned for a flashback in November 2017.
Following retirement, he moved to Ocean Road Riverside Caravan Park in Southport. Sefton Senior Coroner Julia Goulding said he appeared to have 'lost his balance resulting in a fall' and was 'unable to get up until his carers arrived to assist him which was about an hour later.' He died from hospital-acquired pneumonia in 2022, and his death was ruled an accident.
Tributes and Estate
His Emmerdale co-stars paid tribute. Liam O'Brien, who played Ethan Blake, said: 'Heartbroken to hear of the passing of an old friend. Even sadder that he passed in January and I never knew. I was by the sea when I heard the news and Andy Devine was a sailor through and through. Gods rest ye pal. Second star to the right. Straight on 'til morning.'
James Hooton, who plays Sam Dingle, dedicated the Best Soap Family award to him: 'He was an honoured and loves member of the cast. This is for him.'
He left no official will, but probate records from 2024 show his estate was £103,776 gross and £98,907 net.
