Former Eastenders actor Leslie Grantham 'fighting for his life in hospital'

Press Association
Updated
Leslie Grantham in his Eastenders heyday with Anita Dobson as Angie Watts - BBC
Leslie Grantham in his Eastenders heyday with Anita Dobson as Angie Watts - BBC

Former EastEnders star Leslie Grantham is fighting for his life in hospital, according to reports.

The 71-year-old, who played "Dirty" Den Watts in the soap, has reportedly returned to the UK from Bulgaria where he was living, and is in a critical condition.

According to The Sun, Grantham has been visited in hospital by close friends in the industry. A spokeswoman told the newspaper: "It's true that Leslie is very poorly."

Grantham left the UK after splitting with his wife of 31 years, Jane. In 2010, he spent time in Bulgaria filming TV series The English Neighbour.

Grantham shot to fame while playing Watts in EastEnders, originally from 1985 to 1989.

Grantham in 2002, just before his return to Eastenders - Credit: PA
Grantham in 2002, just before his return to Eastenders Credit: PA

A 1986 Christmas Day episode, in which Grantham handed over divorce papers to  his on-screen wife, Angie, drew in an audience of more than 30 million viewers and was voted the best ever Christmas soap storyline. 

The character was apparently killed off in 1989 but Grantham made a shock return to Albert Square in 2003. He left again two years later.