Coronation Street star Philip Lowrie who appeared in first ever episode dies aged 88

Daily Record

26-04-2025

Philip Lowrie, the actor celebrated for his role as Dennis Tanner in ITV's Coronation Street , has passed away at 88. His publicist confirmed his death occurred last Friday. Speaking to the Mirror, his manager Mario Renzullo shared: "My client and very dear friend, Philip Lowrie, the beloved actor renowned for his role as Dennis Tanner on Coronation Street, passed away yesterday at 88," adding a poignant note to ITV News. "His death marks the end of an era for the world's longest-running soap, where he became a cornerstone of its storytelling." Lowrie first appeared on the show in its very first episode back in 1960 when he was just 24 years old, playing the son of Pat Phoenix's Elsie Tanner until 1968. He returned to the Street in 2011, setting a Guinness World Record for the longest time between appearances as the same character on the same TV show. "I've always been proud to have been a member of the original cast of Coronation Street," said Lowrie, reflecting on his achievement. "Now I'm doubly proud to be honoured in the Guinness World Records book." Dennis Tanner made his last appearance in July 2014, and while his character was later killed off-screen, it was part of the storyline for Corrie's milestone 10,000th episode in 2020. Beyond his notable role in Coronation Street , Lowrie's impressive career spanned the West End stage, where he took on roles such as Major Metcalf in The Mousetrap and Klever in The Case of the Frightened Lady. His television credits also include appearances in Doctors, Casualty, and Andy Capp. Additionally, Lowrie lent his voice to the popular Channel 4 show Fifteen to One and played the character of Mr Lakin in ITV's Home Fires in 2015. A testament to his enduring legacy, Lowrie was awarded a Guinness World Record in September 2011 for the longest interval between television appearances as the same character in the same program. Paying tribute, Mario said: "Dennis's rebellious charm and turbulent relationships made him an instant fan favourite." Born in Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, Lowrie developed his acting skills at the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art in London, thanks to his mother's tireless efforts to save for his tuition.] Following his graduation, he made his West End debut in Farewell, Farewell Eugene, sharing the stage with esteemed actresses Margaret Rutherford and Peggy Mount. Lowrie was also a regular fixture on Victoria Wood's television shows, featuring in programs such as All Day Breakfast, As Seen on TV, Wood and Walters, and more. Mario added: "He was a regular performer on comedian Victoria Wood's television shows, appearing in her programmes Victoria Wood's All Day Breakfast, Victoria Wood , The Mall, Pat and Margaret, Live In Your Own Room, We'd Like To Apologise, As Seen On TV and Wood and Walters." The versatile actor shone in a variety of leading roles, including Major Metcalf in "The Mousetrap" (2004), Klever in "The Case of the Frightened Lady" (2018), and Eric in "The Lady Vanishes" (2019). Speaking to Inside Soap in 2011, he reflected on his long-standing career with fondness, saying: "I do hope [I can stay in Corrie], I'm having the best time of my life. I live in London, but now I work here in Manchester for a few days a week, so I have the best of both worlds." He added: "At my time of life, to have a job that I love so much and getting to play such an amazing part, is fantastic. I can't believe my luck, to be quite frank with you." Following the announcement of his passing, heartfelt tributes have poured in for the cherished actor. One devastated fan posted online: "So sad to hear about the death of Philip Lowrie who played Dennis Tanner in Coronation Street. He appeared in the very first episode of the show nearly 65 years ago." Another lamented: "Saddened to hear of the passing of Philip Lowrie . Dennis Tanner was a rogue and I always hoped he'd return to #Corrie. Dennis lives on, I am sure, as his death off-screen in 2020 is bound to be another of Dennis' scams! RIP to a Coronation St. original."