EastEnders actor Shaun Williamson has shared his deep sadness and regret following the death of his former co-star and on-screen father, Tony Caunter, who passed away earlier this month aged 88.

Tony, best known for his role as Roy Evans, joined the BBC soap in 1994 and became a beloved figure in Walford, starring alongside Pam St Clement as Pat Butcher and Shaun Williamson as Roy’s son, Barry Evans. His death came just eight days after that of his wife, Fran, to whom he had been married for 63 years.

Speaking on Good Morning Britain, Shaun called Tony his “second dad” and said he was heartbroken that he never got the chance to visit him before he passed away.

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“We Were Planning to Visit”

Shaun revealed that he and several EastEnders cast members had arranged to visit Tony at the nursing home where he had been living, but sadly, they didn’t make it in time.

“I feel incredibly guilty,” Shaun admitted. “A few of us from EastEnders had planned to go and see Tony, but we left it too long. He was such a big part of my life — not just on screen, but off screen too. He was a real father figure.”

The actor encouraged viewers to reach out to their loved ones if they have the opportunity. “If you’re thinking about someone, contact them,” he said. “You never know when it might be too late.”

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A Gentleman Remembered

Pam St Clement, who played Roy’s wife Pat on the show, also paid a heartfelt tribute through The Sun, describing Tony as “a true gentleman.”

“I am very saddened to hear of Tony’s passing,” she said. “He was not only a lovely man but a true gentleman to work with.”

Tony’s portrayal of Roy Evans made him one of EastEnders’ most respected figures. His storylines with Pat and Barry became some of the show’s most memorable — from fiery arguments to touching family moments that resonated deeply with viewers.

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BBC Pays Tribute

The EastEnders team also released an emotional statement following Tony’s death, honouring both the actor and the character who became a cornerstone of the soap’s golden era.

“It is with great sadness that we learn of the passing of Tony Caunter,” the statement read. “Tony will forever be loved and respected by everyone at EastEnders for his warmth, kindness, and humour, as well as being greatly remembered by those at home who instantly took Roy to their hearts.

“Roy will always be remembered for his great love of Pat — despite him famously declaring his distaste for her choice of earrings — which gave us one of Walford’s greatest love stories.”

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A Lasting Legacy

Tony Caunter passed away peacefully on October 13, surrounded by family. In a statement, his loved ones confirmed that he died just days after losing his wife, Fran.

“After a long and fulfilling life on and off screen and stage, Tony leaves a daughter and three sons, seven grandchildren and four great-grandchildren,” the family said. “He will be missed by all.”

They also extended their gratitude to the NHS staff at Eastbourne District General Hospital and the team at Eastbourne Gardens Nursing Home for their compassion and care in his final days.

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A Life Beyond Walford

Outside of EastEnders, Tony enjoyed an extensive acting career that spanned decades. He appeared in Juliet Bravo, Queenie’s Castle, and numerous stage productions, earning a reputation as a versatile and respected performer.

For millions of viewers, though, he will always be remembered as Roy Evans — the kind-hearted car dealer whose love for Pat Butcher became one of Walford’s most enduring tales.

As Shaun Williamson summed up on Good Morning Britain: “He wasn’t just my screen dad — he was my friend. I’ll miss him deeply.”