Frank Grimes Leaves £125,000 to Wife in Will After Death at 78
The beloved actor Frank Grimes, known for his roles in Coronation Street and Mrs Brown's Boys, has left £125,000 to his wife Ginnette in his will. Grimes passed away on August 1, 2025, at the age of 78, surrounded by his family following a brief illness. His death was announced by the Irish Cultural Centre in London, which hailed him as "one of Ireland's greatest actors" in a heartfelt tribute.
Early Career and Broadway Success
Born in Cabra, Dublin, in 1947, Grimes was the youngest of seven children. He rose to early fame in the play Borstal Boy in Dublin, which later transferred to London and Paris. The production's success led it to Broadway, where Grimes received a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor and was honored with the Most Promising Actor Award by New York critics. This marked a significant milestone in his illustrious career.
Television and Stage Roles
Grimes enjoyed a diverse career spanning television, film, and theatre. He played Barry Connor, the on-screen father of Kym Marsh's character, for seven years on ITV's Coronation Street before departing in 2015. His television credits also included appearances in Casualty, The Bill, and Doctors. On stage, he performed in Shakespeare's Hamlet and other productions at prestigious venues like the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company.
Estate Details and Family
The actor's estate had a gross value of £387,326, with the inheritance amounting to £127,521 after deductions. In his will, written in 2016, Grimes directed that all debts and expenses be paid promptly and left his entire estate to his wife Ginnette. He was married twice: first to actress Michele Lohan in 1968, with whom he had two sons, David and Andrew, and later to Ginnette Clarke in 1984, with whom he had a daughter, Tilly. Both Andrew and Tilly were named as executors of his will.
Tributes from the Irish Cultural Centre
The Irish Cultural Centre released a detailed statement praising Grimes' contributions. They described him as "so warm-hearted, full of Dublin wit and charm in abundance" and highlighted his performances, including a self-penned production on James Joyce that received standing ovations. The statement also noted his training at the Abbey Theatre and his work in films like A Bridge Too Far and Tulips of Harlem.
Legacy and Condolences
Grimes' passing was met with sadness from the Abbey Theatre Dublin, where he performed from 1965 to 1972. The theatre remembered him as a versatile actor who appeared in works by Sean O’Casey, J.M. Synge, and William Shakespeare. The Irish Cultural Centre extended condolences to his wife, children, seven grandchildren, and extended family, stating, "Ireland has lost one of its truly great actors." His legacy as a Tony Award-nominated performer and cherished television star continues to be celebrated by fans and colleagues alike.
