Hollyoaks tragically lost two stars this week - Diane Langton and Paul Danan
Hollyoaks viewers have been saddened to hear of the tragic passing of two cast members this week.
On Wednesday, it was announced that Diane Langton, who played Nana McQueen, had tragically passed away aged 77 while on Thursday it was announced that Paul Danan, who played Sol Patrick, had sadly died aged 46.
Diane's agent, Shane Collins, announced the news of the star's death on Wednesday with a statement confirming: "I am sad to say that Diane Langton passed away this morning."
The actress had a long career that stretched back to the 1950s and included roles in EastEnders, Only Fools and Horses and others as well as her role as Nana McQueen in Hollyoaks, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Diane first joined the Channel 4 soap in 2007 as Nana McQueen before leaving in 2009. She returned once again in 2012 and appeared on-off on Hollyoaks up until last year. Diane's final scenes on the soap aired in December, where she returned to the village to support Mercedes McQueen, played by Jennifer Metcalfe, with her cancer diagnosis.
While Paul's management confirmed his passing on Thursday, saying in a statement: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the tragic news of the passing of Paul Danan at just 46 years old. Known for his television presence, exceptional talent, and unwavering kindness, Paul was a beacon of light to so many.
"His untimely departure will leave irreplaceable voids in the lives of all who knew him. During this difficult time, we kindly request respect and privacy for Paul’s family, friends, and colleagues. No further comments will be made at this time."
The former Hollyoaks actor was best known for playing Sol Patrick in the Channel 4 soap from 1997 until 2001 and appearing in the first-ever series of ITV's Celebrity Love Island in 2005.
Earlier this week, following the news of Diane's sad death, Hollyoaks paid tribute with the following statement: "We are all absolutely heartbroken by the news. Di has been an adored friend and cast member in Hollyoaks for the last 18 years.
"Diane graced screens as the iconic Marlena ‘Nana’ McQueen and brought joy into living rooms; we share the sadness with our audience who we know will miss the character she created.
"Those who work on the production were lucky enough to hear in person the sound of her laughter, ringing through the corridors, and see her smile light up a set.
"Diane was an immense talent, with so many stories to tell from her career as an actor, dancer, film star and entertainer. The cast, crew, writers and entire staff at Lime Pictures will miss her enormously."
Diane's Hollyoaks co-stars also paid tribute with James Sutton, who plays on-screen grandson John Paul McQueen, and Chelsee Healey, who plays Goldie McQueen, posting heartfelt messages.
Hollyoaks airs on Mondays-Wednesdays with its Channel 4 streaming premiere at 7am, then an E4 broadcast the same night at 7pm.
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