Tributes have been pouring in for actor Geoffrey Hinsliff, famed for his portrayal of Don Brennan on Coronation Street, following his death at the age of 86, just shy of his 87th birthday.
Born in Leeds, Hinsliff became a household name on the ITV soap, where he first appeared in 1987, and remained a fixture for a decade.
His character, Don Brennan, was central to numerous dramatic storylines, involving tumultuous relationships, affairs, kidnapping, and even attempted murder.
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Before his time on Coronation Street, Hinsliff enjoyed a diverse acting career. He appeared in popular TV shows like Doctor Who, Heartbeat, and Brass, as well as the war film A Bridge Too Far.
Hinsliff was a graduate of the prestigious Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA), having earned a scholarship to study there in 1960 after leaving school at 15 without qualifications.
His family, in a heartfelt statement, described him as “restless, curious, adventurous and funny,” and noted his deep commitment to family life.
They added, “It was family and home that ultimately mattered to him most.”
Helen Worth, who plays Gail Platt in Coronation Street, paid tribute to her former colleague, saying, “Geoff was a lovely, quiet man who will be sadly missed by us all.” ITV also acknowledged Hinsliff’s impact, particularly his on-screen chemistry with Lynne Perrie, who played his wife Ivy.
Their partnership provided viewers with compelling drama and remained a beloved element of the show for years.
Hinsliff’s character, Don, was involved in some of the soap’s most memorable storylines, including his strained relationship with Ivy, which was overshadowed by her grief over her son’s death.
Don’s demise on the show in 1997 was unforgettable – his car crashing off a viaduct and bursting into flames after a dramatic plot involving kidnapping and attempted murder.
Reflecting on his character’s departure, Hinsliff remarked, “I am going out in style… Don’s too far down that road now. He’s virtually a complete mental case and there’s no going back.”
Beyond television, Hinsliff also made his mark on stage, notably working with celebrated director Peter Brook and starring in the English-language production of Marat/Sade.
His role in The Changing Room at the Royal Court and in the film O Lucky Man further showcased his versatility. His family also fondly remembered his time in the satirical ITV series Brass, where he played George Fairchild, a character that cleverly poked fun at class divides in the north of England.
Hinsliff is survived by his wife Judith, whom he married in 1967, their daughters Gaby and Sophie, and four grandchildren.
His passing leaves a significant void in the British acting community, but his legacy endures through his vast body of work and the many lives he touched, both on and off screen.
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