The world of British television is in mourning after the death of Coronation Street legend Philip Lowrie, who passed away at the age of 88. His passing, confirmed by publicist Mario Renzullo, marks the end of an era for Corrie, the world’s longest-running soap opera, where Lowrie’s character, Dennis Tanner, left an indelible mark.

Lowrie’s connection to Coronation Street runs deep. At just 24 years old, he made his debut in the very first episode of the show in December 1960. Taking on the role of Dennis Tanner — a rebellious, charming young man freshly released from prison after a stint for petty theft — Lowrie instantly captured the spirit of Weatherfield’s rough-around-the-edges, yet deeply human, residents. As the son of Elsie and Arnold Tanner, Dennis quickly became a fixture in the tight-knit community of Coronation Street.

Series creator Tony Warren once described Dennis as the archetypal “wrong ‘un” — the lovable bad boy every community seemed to have. Despite his brushes with the law and a streak of mischief, Dennis was a character with heart, a balance that Lowrie portrayed with subtlety and charisma.

Lowrie’s first run on Coronation Street lasted until 1968, with a brief interruption in 1962 during a writers’ strike. His portrayal left such an impact that decades later, fans were thrilled when he made a surprise return to the show in 2011, stepping back into the life of a matured but still recognizable Dennis Tanner. His return was not just a nostalgic nod but a full-fledged revival of a beloved character, earning him a Guinness World Record for the longest gap between TV appearances playing the same role.

During his second stint on Corrie, Dennis found new storylines, including a poignant relationship with longtime character Rita, played by Barbara Knox. Their on-screen romance delighted fans, showing Dennis in a new light as an older man still searching for connection and love. Lowrie’s final scenes as Dennis aired in 2014, but the character remained part of Coronation Street lore — eventually being killed off-screen in 2020 to commemorate the show’s monumental 10,000th episode.

Outside of Coronation Street, Philip Lowrie enjoyed a varied and successful career. A native of Ashton-under-Lyne, Lancashire, he honed his acting skills at London’s prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), thanks to the hard work and savings of his mother. His stage debut came soon after in the West End production Farewell, Farewell Eugene, where he shared the spotlight with legends Margaret Rutherford and Peggy Mount.

Lowrie’s talents weren’t confined to drama alone. He had a keen sense of humor, which shone through his numerous collaborations with beloved comedian Victoria Wood. He appeared in several of her hit television shows, including All Day Breakfast, As Seen on TV, and Wood and Walters, becoming a familiar and beloved face to viewers beyond soap opera fans.

In 2015, he continued his television career with a role as Mr. Larkin in the ITV period drama Home Fires. His theatre career also remained vibrant, with notable West End performances that demonstrated his range and longevity as an actor.

Interestingly, Lowrie even dabbled in music, recording a pop single titled I Might Have Known at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in 1963. Though the song didn’t become a chart-topping hit, it remains a fascinating footnote in a life full of artistic adventure.

In recent years, Lowrie reflected fondly on his life and career. Despite his many achievements, he maintained a humble and grateful attitude, often expressing his disbelief at his own good fortune in being part of television history.

Photos of Lowrie — standing proudly alongside fellow Coronation Street legends like Barbara Knox and the unforgettable Pat Phoenix — now serve as lasting reminders of the legacy he leaves behind. From his youthful days causing mischief in Weatherfield to his mature, more complex storylines later in life, Dennis Tanner was a character who grew and changed alongside the audience — and Philip Lowrie brought him to life with warmth, wit, and incredible authenticity.

As tributes pour in from fans and colleagues alike, it is clear that Philip Lowrie’s impact went far beyond the cobbles of Coronation Street. His work resonated with millions, and his performances will be cherished for generations to come. The curtain may have fallen on one of Weatherfield’s originals, but his memory and influence will never fade.