Tributes to Coronation Street's Johnny Briggs
He played Mike Baldwin for 30 years
Last updated 28th Feb 2021
Coronation Street star Johnny Briggs, famous for his role as ladies' man Mike Baldwin, has died aged 85.
The actor was a fixture on the cobbles for 30 years and became one of the soap's most memorable characters.
A statement from his family said Briggs died peacefully after a long illness.
It is with great sadness that we announce the death of our father, Johnny Briggs,'' the statement said.
He passed away peacefully this morning after a long illness, with family by his side. He was 85."
We politely ask for privacy at this time, so that we can quietly grieve as a family and remember the wonderful times we had with him.''
The Coronation Street Twitter account paid tribute, saying the Baldwin character was one of the most iconic the Street has ever known''.
His storylines included an affair, in the early 1980s, that gripped the nation.
Deidre and Mike had an illicit relationship two years into her marriage to Ken Barlow, but she decided to stay with her husband.
Briggs made his Corrie debut as Baldwin in 1976 and remained on the cobbles until 2006.
William Roache, who played Barlow, was among the many Coronation Street stars to remember their former co-star.
Mike Baldwin and Ken Barlow were arch enemies for many years, but as an actor, Johnny was impeccable, always good, and I was so fortunate to have worked with him for so many years. He was a strong character who will be greatly missed.”
Coronation Street star Helen Worth, who plays Gail Platt, was among those paying tribute:
I am very sorry to hear the sad news. I have many happy memories of working together with Johnny. Mike Baldwin was one of the street's most memorable characters.''
Antony Cotton, who plays Sean Tully in the soap, tweeted:
Sue Nicholls, the soap's Audrey Roberts, said Briggs was a truly great actor''.
He played the part of Mike Baldwin so well that, despite all Mike's ducking and diving, you were always on his side.
Although he left the show 15 years ago he will always be part of the Street and its history. I send my love and condolences to his family.''
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