EASTENDERS legend Dean Gaffney has paid an emotional tribute to his mother Marian on social media after she tragically passed away.
The heartbroken star took to Instagram to break the news to his fans and said he was “simply broken” after losing his mum.
Eastenders legend Dean Gaffney has been left devastated after his mum tragically passed away
Dean paid an incredible tribute to his beloved mum
Posting a couple of photos of Marian including one of him gently kissing her head, grieving Dean, 45, wrote: “I am simply broken to share that my beautiful selfless mother Marian has sadly passed away.
“I was, am and always will be a mummy’s boy so this news has completely floored me.
“I spoke to her every day and in some ways I’m glad I’m the one that found her asleep.
“I will retain all the amazing memories that we shared and whilst I understand the circle of life means everyone will feel this pain at some point in their lives, life can be very cruel at times.”
The devastated star described the pain as “beyond any” that he had experienced before.
“To know I will never be able to physically see or speak to her ever again is beyond any pain I’ve ever experienced in my life.
“We all tell our parents and loved ones we love them flippantly at the end of a phone call but please tell them you actually really love them… put down that phone when you’re with them, as my mums only criticism of me was that I would be on my phone when in her company. Life really does change from one minute to the next.
“I truly love you Mum, you don’t only hold a special place in my heart, you are my heart.
“For anyone that knew her, I don’t need to remind you of who my mum was as a person for others that don’t, she was the most amazing selfless, caring, generous soul to ever walk the earth.
“Mum, I truly love you.”
Fans and friends showed their support after hearing the awful news.
Carol Vorderman said: “Oh Dean. I’m so very sorry to hear your news….. you loved her so much and she would have been so proud of you. Sending love as ever.”
Celebs Go Dating star Anna Williamson said: “Dean, I’m so sorry to hear this honey. Sending love & always here if you need a shoulder.”
And EastEnders actor Max Bowden said: “Love you so much mate. She was so proud of you.”
Dean is famed for his iconic role as Robbie Jackson on EastEnders.
The 45 year old is a proud father to his twin daughters, Chloe and Charlotte who he shares with ex-partner Sarah Burge.
Dean’s daughter Chloe works as a PR for clothing brand Pretty Little Thing and welcomed her first child two years ago.
Dean revealed at the time that he’d become a grandfather at the age of 43.
Dean is famed for his iconic role as Robbie Jackson on EastEnders
