Leonard Fenton dies aged 95: EastEnders actor known for Dr Legg role passes away 

EastEnders actor Leonard Fenton has died aged 95.  

Leonard was best known for playing Walford’s original GP, Dr Harold Legg, appearing on the BBC soap from its very first episode in 1985, until his character was killed off in 2019.

A statement from his family read: ‘The family of the actor Leonard Fenton are heartbroken to announce his death at the age of 95 on Saturday January 29. 

‘Best known for his role as Dr Legg on EastEnders, Leonard’s acting career spanned more than 60 years.’ 

It continued: ‘He worked in TV and film and his long stage career included time at the National Theatre and most recently the Royal Shakespeare Company. 

‘He felt privileged to have worked with some of the greats of the theatre, including Samuel Beckett, Orson Welles and Jonathan Miller.’

The statement concluded: ‘His passion for painting and singing pre-dated his acting career and was equally as important to him. He will be missed beyond words by his family. 

‘We feel incredibly lucky to have been able to be with him as his health worsened towards the end – a privilege denied to so many during these tough times.’

 Iconic: Leonard was best known for playing Walford’s original GP, Dr Harold Legg, and appeared on the BBC soap in its very first episode in 1985 (pictured with co-star June Brown) 

An EastEnders spokesperson added: ‘We are deeply saddened to hear that Leonard has passed away. 

‘Since appearing in the very first episode of EastEnders, Leonard created a truly iconic character in Doctor Legg who will always be remembered. Our love and thoughts are with Leonard’s family and friends.’

Leonard appeared in a total of 267 episodes of EastEnders. 

The EastEnders Twitter account also marked the actor’s passing, with the post: ‘Dr Harold Legg. An #EastEnders icon from the very first episode. Here’s to Leonard Fenton for his wonderful presence over the decades. #EastEnders.’ 

Leonard’s character was killed off on EastEnders in 2019, with the emotional storyline seeing him lose his battle with pancreatic cancer. 

Tragic loss: Following the news of his passing, EastEnders paid tribute to Leonard on the soap’s official social media channel

Harold returned to Albert Square to spend his final moments with none other than his longtime friend Dot Cotton, played by June Brown, 91. 

Dot realised the end was in sight for Dr Legg when he was brought back to the square and she saw the frail state he was in.  

Sharing touching moments as Harold drifted away, the doctor held his father’s pendant in his hand before his grip loosened and he passed away. 

Emotional scenes: Leonard’s character was killed off from EastEnders in 2019 as he lost his battle with pancreatic cancer in the soap

On working with Leonard again when he rejoined the show last year, June, said: ‘It’s been eleven years since Dot last visited her favourite doctor, Doctor Legg, and it’s an utter delight to be working with Leonard Fenton again.’ 

One of the show’s original characters, Leonard portrayed the medical doctor in regular and recurring roles up until 1997, before appearing in short cameos in the early 2000s.

Gushing over his surprising return, the star said: ‘I am very happy to be back at EastEnders and am looking forward to working with June and the rest of the cast and crew again.’