James Caroll, who played roles in Coronation Street and Brookside, has died.
The late actor was credited with playing Brian ‘Bumper’ Humphreys on the Channel 4 soap opera Brookside, which aired between 1988 and 1991. Earlier this year, the Preston-based actor played Mary Taylor’s friend Colin, in Coronation Street.
It is understood James died suddenly with no confirmed cause of death, reports The Mirror. It was previously reported that James battled pneumonia in 2020, but the soap star has made a full recovery.
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While James was known for his acting, he also spent a lot of time sharing his life on YouTube where he spoke to viewers about living with a disease that meant the arteries in his brain could rupture at any time. .
James lived in Preston and he shared a documentary about his condition. In the documentary, he recounts his life with his wife Justine and their children.
“I’m with Justine now, what – almost 13 years,” James says at one point in the documentary, “Me and Justine had so much fun in 13 years. It’s hard to think about the worries of not being here because that – you know, without meeting Justine and without having the boys, I think back to those 13 years.”
“If I died tomorrow, I would be a happy man,” he adds.
“I wouldn’t stand where I was, I wouldn’t be bitter about it, because in life and experience and stuff like that, I’ve had so much fun and so much love and good times .”
The Preston star was also part of a band called 2 Toned – a Ska tribute duo that celebrated ska, reggae and 2-toned music on the charts. Following his death, one of James’ bandmates paid tribute to the late star.
The moving tribute reads: “My heart is broken. My amazing friend, mentor and brother James Caroll Jimmy has sadly passed away. Jimmy and I had an awesome act and we had 12 great years and over 850 shows in across the country and met and entertained thousands of wonderful people who we now call friends.
“The time on stage has been amazing, but the quality time spent traveling, laughing, crying, joking and of course singing and being an integral part of everyone’s life is something.
He continues: “I will always remember and cherish for the rest of my days. Love you Jim good night until we meet again my dearest friend have fun it’s later than you think. “
Another moving tribute reads: “Rest in peace mate. Thanks for the shows and the laughs. Heartfelt condolences to family and friends. Surely a showbiz star will shine brighter now.”
“Good night, God bless one of the finest gentlemen on this planet, it was [sic] nice to see you playing and becoming great friends,” read one of the many emotional posts about the late star.
“Rip Jimmy’s thoughts are with your family and Alan at this sad time.”