The Emmerdale community has been rocked by heartbreaking news in the first days of 2026. Beloved actor Gordon Bentley, best known for his iconic portrayal of

village stalwart Frank Ridley, has passed away at the age of 72. His sudden death has sent shockwaves through the soap’s cast, crew, and millions of loyal viewers

who have grown up watching him grace the screens of ITV’s enduring drama.

Bentley’s family confirmed the actor’s passing late Wednesday evening, sharing that he died peacefully at home surrounded by loved ones. No official cause of death has yet been released, but close friends say he had been quietly battling health challenges in recent months. Tributes have poured in across social media and from within the entertainment industry, as colleagues and fans alike mourn a man whose presence on and off screen was larger than life.

Frank Ridley was introduced to Emmerdale audiences more than two decades ago as a no-nonsense farmer with a heart of gold and a stubborn streak to rival any other resident of the Dales. From feuding with local families to offering sage advice at the Woolpack, Frank became one of the show’s most enduring characters. His dry wit and emotional depth made him a focal point in some of the series’ most memorable storylines — from crisis and tragedy to joy and redemption.

Producer Laura Harrington released an emotional statement this morning, saying, “We are devastated by the loss of Gordon Bentley. He embodied the spirit of Emmerdale like no other — generous, warm, and endlessly talented. Frank Ridley wasn’t just a character. To many, he was family. His legacy will live on in every corner of the village he helped shape.”

Co-stars also shared their grief. Actress Marianne Holt, who played Frank’s on-screen daughter Sarah Ridley, described Bentley as “the most remarkable man, generous with his talent and his spirit.” She continued, “He taught me so much — about acting, about kindness, and about patience. I will miss him every day.”

Another long-serving ensemble member, Daniel Reeves (Aaron Tate), reflected on Bentley’s ability to connect: “Gordon could make you laugh and break your heart in the same breath. That rare gift is what made him unforgettable.”

Fans have been quick to react, flooding social platforms with memories of their favorite Frank Ridley moments — from his heated feud with the Campbells to his tearful farewell to Sarah in 2024. One longtime viewer wrote, “Emmerdale won’t be the same without Frank. He was the soul of the village.” Another added, “Rest in peace, Gordon. Thank you for every laugh, every tear, and every Sunday night spent with you.”

As the Emmerdale cast and crew prepare to commemorate Bentley’s life on screen and off, plans are already underway for a special tribute episode later this year. Showrunners have hinted that the village may gather in a moving memorial service for Frank Ridley — a fitting salute to a character and actor who brought so much heart to the series.

Gordon Bentley’s passing marks the end of an era for Emmerdale, but his legacy will endure in the stories he helped tell and the hearts he touched. Viewers across the UK and beyond are mourning today, united in grief for a star who felt like family. Details of funeral arrangements and tributes will be shared as they become available.