14 July 2023 , 14:05
1212
0
Hollyoaks star Gary Lucy has revealed his grandmother, who he dubbed "supergran" has died.
The actor, who is set to become a dad for the fifth time in just a number of days, has taken to social media to share his heartache with his fans who rushed to offer their condolences.
Gary, 41, explained that his late gran was "at peace" and that his "army" of relative sin Ireland had rushed to support the actor and managed to cheer him up during such an emotional period.
His gran, Lily, inspired his Hollyoaks dementia storyline after he battled the disease, explaining: "It really is such an awful disease."
In view of his Instagram followers, he shared a video montage of photographs of his late gran alongside the caption: "Finally My Nanny Lily is at peace … simply put …. Thank you for sharing your wisdom, fun and Laughter … loved you then love you now and always will.
England star Joe Marler reflects on lowest point after fight with pregnant wife
Gary Lucy has revealed his beloved gran, Lily has passed away (Instagram/ @gary.lucy)
The actor shared the devastating news on his Instagram page (David Fisher/ITV/REX/Shutterstock)"A special shout out to all my extended family (army) in Ireland for helping make what is normally such a sad occasion into one filled with wonderful memories."
His post was instantly flooded with support with his pal Marie-Claire writing: "Darling boy… she will always be with you by your side and in your heart. Love you lots."
"So sorry for your loss," wrote another. While a third person commented: "Ah brother. I’m so sorry for your loss. Sending my thoughts and love to your family. It must have made her so happy to see all the life that has flowed into the world through her efforts and her love and care."
Another added: "I’m so sorry to hear this news. Incredibly sad, I know how much you loved your Nanny….. What a beautiful special place with the sun shining Ireland looked on the day you said goodbye - sending love to you and keep remembering those special times you shared and the memories you made together."
Gary chose to walk away from his role of Luke on Hollyoaks, a role he had played on and off since he was 17 and explained the storyline was inspired by Lily.
Speaking previously to The Sun, he said: "It was a story that I really wanted to tell and there was only one way it could end - with Luke’s tragic death.
“Young person dementia has never been shown on British TV before and sadly like so many others dementia is an illness that has touched my family. My Nan was diagnosed with dementia back when I was doing Dancing On Ice in 2010 and it’s absolutely horrendous. It really is such an awful disease."