The Tony-nominated actor passed away last week after a long illness.

By Lauren Morris

Published: Monday, 16 August 2021 at 12:00 am


Coronation Street star Dilys Watling has died aged 78.

The actor, who was best known for playing Merle Baker in the ITV soap in 1966 and for appearing in the The Two Ronnies, passed away on 10th August after battling a long illness.,

Watling’s brother and Clacton MP Giles Watling paid tribute to the Corrie star, saying: “Dilys was a much-loved sister and was the eldest of the five of us.

“She led the way and was a real trailblazer for the rest of us,” he added. “She took Broadway by storm in the late 1960s, playing the eponymous role of Georgy – and we were proud when she was nominated for a Tony Award.”

More to follow…