Emmerdale Pearl actress Meg Johnson dies aged 86 as tributes pour in for star
Meg Johnson died at the age of 86 surrounded by her family on Saturday evening.
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Meg Johnson, who is known for playing Pearl Ladderbanks in Emmerdale has died.
A statement, which was released on the ITV soap's official Twitter, revealed the actress died surrounded by her family.
It said: "It is with great sadness that we announce that actress Meg Johnson passed away peacefully yesterday evening surrounded by her family.
"Meg was a kind and wonderful lady, full of warmth and always with a twinkle in her eye.
"She will be greatly missed by everyone who knew her."
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The actress first joined Emmerdale back in 2003 as the receptionist at the vets.
Since her character's debut, viewers saw Pearl involved in some huge storylines in the soap.
Some of which included developing a gambling addiction, faking Alzheimer's disease and being trapped in a fire during a house explosion.
The actress took an extended break from the show in 2019 and didn't return on-screen until 2020.
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Although when the Coronavirus pandemic hit, its reported Meg wasn't allowed on set due to her age.
Which meant her character's last on-screen appearance was in March 2020.
Along with starring in the soap, Meg also starred in Brookside as Brigid McKenna and played three different roles on Coronation Street.
Since the news of her death, fans of the actress have taken to social media to share their support and condolences.
On Twitter, @lewispringle said: "RIP Meg, she was a wonderful actress and was fabulous as Pearl. Always glamorous, and always had heart. Lovely lady, my thoughts are with her family."