Only Fools and Horses star and soap icon Diane Langton dies aged 77

By Gemma Jones, Showbiz Reporter

Diane Langton has died (Image: Getty)

Diane Langton has died aged 77. The actress, who had a showbiz career spanning several decades, was best known for roles on Hollyoaks and Only Fools and Horses.

Her 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."

Adding a comment about Diane's incredible career, which began in the 1950s, her agent continued: "Diane had a rich and remarkable career appearing on Stage, in Films, and on television, including playing the iconic Nana Mqueen in Hollyoaks from 2007 to the present day.

"Diane trained at the Corona Academy and started her professional career as a dancer, touring with ballet companies throughout Europe, followed by appearances on That Was the Week That Was and The London Palladium."

The star had a recurring role as June Snell in the smash comedy Only Fools And Horses - appearing in two episodes of the show in the 1980s. She later turned into a soap star as she landed the role of Bev Williams in BBC's EastEnders.

Diane Langton played the role of Del Boy's girlfriend (Image: Getty)

Then, in 2007, Diane took on the role of portraying Nanna McQueen in Channel 4's Hollyoaks. Her first stint in the role lasted until 2009 and she later returned in 2012.

She left the soap again in 2023 only to return this year - and she continued to star in the series up to her death.

Back in 2018, the actress told the press that she had "no plans to retire". Diane shared: "I have to do it because it's my food.

"I sound very dramatic, but I actually can't live without it, because when I'm not doing it, I go into, like, a coma."

The star had a career spanning several decades (Image: Getty)

Diane added: "I’ve been doing this since I was six. You’d think I’d be really fed up of it by now! They say to me, when are you going to retire? And I say, retire to what?

"There’s only so many times I can go round Sainsburys or do the housework, or make the bed."

Singer, actress and BBC radio host Elaine Page was among the first to pay tribute to the late soap star. Posting to her social media accounts, Elaine shared: "In total shock at Diane Langton's passing.

"Memories of us in Hair flooding back. Her in the dressing room with a bottle of brown ale! We also recorded an LP 'Sparrow.' She was a unique, talented artist. A funny, kind & special friend. My thoughts with husband Derek. RIP Diane."