Coronation Street star Hayley Tamaddon has been left heartbroken after the death of one of her close friends, fellow actor Owain Rhys Davies, who passed away at the age of 44.
Tribute to a Talented Performer
The 49-year-old actress, best known for her roles as Andrea Beckett on Coronation Street and Delilah Dingle on Emmerdale, took to Instagram in the early hours of Monday morning to reflect on the sudden loss. Alongside a picture of herself and Owain, she wrote: 'Heartbreaking to hear that my beautiful friend has passed away. Owain was loved by so many. He lit up every room he went into.'
Owain Rhys Davies was a Welsh actor who appeared in Twin Peaks: The Return, Disney's Alice Through The Looking Glass, and A Serial Killer's Guide To Life. He also had an extensive career on the West End, starring in top-rated London productions such as The Wizard of Oz and Mamma Mia!
Outpouring of Support
Hayley added: 'I have some wonderful memories of us together, we go back so many years.. but our time together in LA will always make me smile. Sleep well my love. My heart goes out to his friends, and family Rhodri and Conway.'
Fans quickly offered their condolences in the comments. One wrote: 'Sorry to see this. My friend of 20 yrs passed last yr. Thinking of everyone.' Another said: 'My deepest condolences to family and friends at this sad time.' A follower commented: 'So sorry for your loss sending you all my love.'
The former Dancing On Ice star, who has also carved out a successful career in musical theatre, shared the post to her Instagram Story and added: 'This is devastating news, I adored the bones of him. We had some great times over the years. So very sad.'
Fellow Soap Stars Pay Tribute
News of Owain's death was initially shared by his brother Rhodri Davies, who wrote on Instagram: 'It is with profound sadness that my father and I share the news that my brother, Owain, has passed away. This news will come as a great shock to many. While there are still questions that remain unanswered regarding the circumstances of his death, our understanding at this stage is that Owain passed suddenly, naturally, and peacefully.'
Several other famous faces were quick to pay tribute. Natalie Anderson, who currently plays Danielle Silverton on Coronation Street and also previously starred in Emmerdale, wrote: 'Sending you and your Dad so much love and strength, Our beautiful, kind Owain.'
Downton Abbey star Joanne Froggatt said: 'No words seem to convey my emotions. I am so sorry for your loss and the grief you must be feeling. I am just devastated to lose our beautiful friend, he was more than a friend, he was joy and life and talent and kindness and fun and intelligence, he was everything and my brain can't compute that we don't get to hug him again. What I would give for one more hug. You're forever in our hearts cariad.'
EastEnders legend Michelle Collins penned: 'Truly the brightest light anywhere he went. I am in disbelief. Lucky to know him and see how his spirit touched so many lives. I am so sorry and sending love to your family. May his memory be a blessing.'
Sophie Evans, who made her West End debut as a teenager when she took on the role of Dorothy in The Wizard of Oz and went on to star as Glinda in megahit Wicked, added: 'A Welsh legend. I am sending you so much love. He made time in London feel more like home. The kindest friend.'
