Coronation Street has lost one of its quiet but most beloved figures, with the death of supporting actor Tony Little, fondly known to fans as the show’s iconic “Old Kebab Guy.”

The news, which emerged just days after Christmas, has sparked an emotional wave of tributes from cast members, fellow supporting artists, and viewers who came

to cherish his familiar presence on the cobbles. Tony Little passed away on December 28, 2025, aged 88. While he never delivered a single line of dialogue on screen

, his contribution to the long-running ITV soap was far from insignificant. For years, Tony’s face was a reassuring constant in Weatherfield — a background figure who somehow felt essential, a reminder that Coronation Street is as much about atmosphere and community as it is about headline-grabbing storylines.

Fans will remember him instantly: often positioned near Roy’s Rolls or loitering close to the Street’s bustling hubs, Tony’s “Old Kebab Guy” became a quietly iconic figure. His presence brought warmth and authenticity, grounding dramatic scenes in a lived-in reality. In a show celebrated for its ensemble storytelling, Tony embodied the spirit of everyday Weatherfield — the people who watch, listen, and live alongside the drama.

The news of his death was confirmed publicly by fellow Coronation Street supporting artist Adam Blease, who shared the announcement on X. Posting Tony’s dates of birth and death alongside a broken heart emoji, Blease paid a deeply personal tribute that captured the affection so many felt for him.

“Tony Little was not only hilarious, he was also a great friend,” Blease wrote. “We had the most unlikely friendship brought together by joy and laughter. Always iconic and a true legend.”

Those words struck a chord with fans, offering a glimpse into the man behind the on-screen appearances. According to colleagues, Tony was far more than a background artist. He was a comedian, singer, entertainer, and a natural storyteller who brought humour and humanity to everyone around him. On set, he was known for lifting spirits during long filming days, sharing jokes between takes, and reminding others why they fell in love with performing in the first place.

The unofficial Coronation Street podcast The Talk of the Street also paid tribute, noting that Tony’s appearances “always made me smile.” The podcast remembered him as “quite the character,” a phrase echoed repeatedly across social media as fans shared their memories and favourite sightings of the quietly charismatic performer.

For long-time viewers, Tony’s death feels like losing a piece of the Street itself. Over the years, he was frequently seen in scenes alongside some of the show’s biggest names, including Bill Roache, Samia Longchambon, and Daniel Brocklebank. Though he stood silently in the background, his reactions, body language, and unmistakable presence added texture to countless episodes.

In a soap that prides itself on realism, Tony’s role was crucial. He represented the ordinary residents who populate Weatherfield — the people who don’t dominate storylines but whose existence makes the world feel real. His character reminded viewers that life continues in the background, even as dramatic confrontations and emotional revelations take centre stage.

Within the Coronation Street supporting cast community, Tony was widely respected and deeply loved. Supporting artists often form the backbone of long-running shows, yet their contributions can go unnoticed. Tony’s passing has brought renewed appreciation for these unsung heroes, whose consistency and commitment help sustain the illusion of a living, breathing neighbourhood.

Colleagues have spoken of Tony’s professionalism and generosity, noting that he treated every appearance — no matter how small — as an opportunity to give something meaningful to the scene. He understood that acting is not always about speaking, but about listening, reacting, and existing truthfully in the moment.

For fans, the affection for Tony Little speaks volumes about Coronation Street’s unique relationship with its audience. Viewers don’t just invest in main characters; they form attachments to faces that feel familiar, comforting, and real. Tony’s “Old Kebab Guy” became one of those faces — someone audiences expected to see, even if they didn’t consciously realise it.

In the days following the announcement, social media has been filled with messages from fans expressing sadness and gratitude. Many shared how spotting Tony in scenes became a small joy, a visual Easter egg that made Weatherfield feel like home. Others reflected on how his presence reminded them of people they recognise in their own communities — the familiar figures you see every day, whose absence is felt deeply when they’re gone.

His death also arrives at a reflective time for the show, underscoring the passage of time and the many individuals who have helped build Coronation Street into the institution it is today. Tony Little may not have headlined dramatic story arcs, but his contribution was part of the show’s DNA — woven quietly into its fabric over years of appearances.

As Coronation Street continues to evolve, introducing new characters and storylines, the loss of Tony serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of continuity and community. It highlights how even the smallest roles can leave the biggest impressions, and how a familiar face can become a cherished part of viewers’ lives.

Adam Blease’s tribute perhaps captured it best: a friendship born from joy and laughter, an unlikely bond formed through shared moments on set, and a performer whose impact extended far beyond the camera’s focus. Tony Little’s legacy is not measured in lines delivered or awards won, but in smiles sparked, scenes enriched, and memories created.

While Weatherfield will continue without him, it will never quite be the same. Tony Little will be remembered as one of Coronation Street’s quiet legends — a man who proved that sometimes, simply being there is enough to make a lasting difference.

As fans mourn his passing, they also celebrate a life well lived and a career defined by warmth, humour, and humanity. In the bustling background of Britain’s most famous street, Tony Little stood silently — and in doing so, spoke volumes.