The Coronation Street family — and soap fans around the world — are mourning the loss of a true icon. Philip Lowrie, who helped launch the legendary ITV series back in 1960, has sadly passed away at the age of 88. His death, announced by his agent Mario Renzullo, represents the closing of a very special chapter in Corrie history.

Philip’s agent issued a heartfelt statement confirming the news, saying: “My client and very dear friend, Philip Lowrie, the beloved actor renowned for his role as Dennis Tanner on Coronation Street, passed away yesterday at 88. His death marks the end of an era for the world’s longest-running soap, where he became a cornerstone of its storytelling.”

And truly, Philip was so much more than just a cast member — he was part of Coronation Street’s very foundation.

Fans will forever remember him as Dennis Tanner, the charming, rebellious son of Elsie Tanner, played by the legendary Pat Phoenix. When Philip first stepped onto the cobbles as Dennis in 1960, he was just 24 years old — a young man portraying a wayward teen fresh out of prison, trying to turn his life around. His natural charisma and mischievous energy made Dennis an instant favorite, establishing him as one of Weatherfield’s most unforgettable characters.

Dennis’s relationship with his mother Elsie was at the heart of the show’s earliest years. Their fiery arguments, tender reconciliations, and shared struggles helped set the emotional tone that would define Coronation Street for generations.

Though he briefly left the show in 1962 during a writers’ strike, Philip quickly returned, staying until 1968. For eight years, viewers watched Dennis grow from a tearaway lad into a more mature — if still occasionally reckless — young man. When he eventually left Weatherfield, it felt like the end of an era.

But it wasn’t the last Corrie fans would see of Philip. In 2011, after more than four decades away, he returned triumphantly to the street that made him a household name. Older, wiser, but still carrying that signature Dennis Tanner spark, Philip’s return was welcomed with open arms by fans old and new. This time around, Dennis’s story took a romantic turn when he fell for another Corrie legend: Rita Sullivan, played by Barbara Knox. Their wedding was a beautiful — if complicated — moment in Corrie history, bridging the soap’s rich past with its vibrant present.

Sadly, Dennis’s off-screen fate in 2020 was a somber one. During the soap’s 10,000th episode celebrations, it was revealed that Dennis had passed away, closing the chapter on his character permanently — but not before cementing his legacy in the hearts of viewers.

News of Philip Lowrie’s passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes across the soap world and social media. The Coronation Street Podcast shared a moving message: “Lowrie brought an incredible charm and charisma to Dennis, who was the scampish son of Elsie Tanner and later husband of Rita. We’re so grateful for the work he left behind.”

Another fan expressed the sentiment shared by many, writing: “Philip Lowrie, you were an icon and will be sorely missed.”

Longtime fans reflected on how much Philip brought to the show’s earliest years: “Sad to hear that Philip Lowrie has died. He played Dennis Tanner on Coronation Street from the first episode in 1960 until 1968. His joyous performances made Dennis one of the best loved characters from that era. He reprised the role from 2011 to 2014. RIP Philip.”

As Coronation Street continues into new decades, it does so on the strong foundation built by trailblazing actors like Philip Lowrie. His portrayal of Dennis Tanner wasn’t just part of the show’s history — it helped define British television itself.

Philip’s passing is a poignant reminder of the incredible legacy left behind by the original cast. His wit, warmth, and unmistakable charm will live on in the archives of Coronation Street and in the memories of everyone who loved him.

Rest in peace, Philip Lowrie — Weatherfield, and the world, will never forget you.