Anita Dobson remembers former EastEnders co-star Leslie Grantham

Anita Dobson has fondly remembered her former Eastenders co-star Leslie Grantham following his death.
The actress, who played Angie Watts in British soap opera from 1985 to 1988, described the “amazing” bond she had with her on-screen husband, who starred as “Dirty” Den Watts.
Grantham passed away on Friday (15Jun18), just days after it was reported he was fighting for his life in hospital after returning to the U.K. from Bulgaria where he had been living. The cause of death has not been announced, though it’s been reported he had lung cancer.
“The time we had together was amazing,” Anita told ITV News. “The chemistry was just extraordinary and a very memorable time and I won’t forget him.
“It was a magical time because I don’t think either of us expected the chemistry to be so potent. But, the first time we rehearsed together, I remember after we’d done a little scene Leslie walked away and went ‘Yes, brilliant!’ and I knew exactly what he meant. It just worked.”
A 1986 Christmas Day episode of EastEnders drew in an audience of more than 30 million viewers, who watched as Den handed over divorce papers to his long-suffering wife Angie.
The character was killed off in 1989 but made a shock return to Albert Square in 2003.
Former soldier Grantham divorced his wife of 31 years, Jane Laurie, in 2013 and is survived by his three adult children.
Letitia Dean, who starred as Grantham’s on-screen daughter Sharon, said after his passing: “I have very special memories of working with Leslie and will cherish them always. He and Anita (Dobson) looked after me in my early days and showed me the ropes, always with care and kindness.
“He never failed to make me laugh and I will remember him with love, affection and gratitude forever. See you up there, Leslie! Thank you for everything. Love and respect always, Tish.”