Geoff Hinsliff, renowned for his portrayal of Don Brennan in Coronation Street, has passed away at the age of 87. The esteemed actor’s death has prompted an outpouring of tributes, led by co-star Helen Worth. Hinsliff’s contributions to the iconic television series have solidified his status as a distinguished figure within the entertainment industry.
It has been confirmed that Coronation Street actor Geoff Hinsliff, aged 87, has passed away. Best known for his portrayal of Don Brennan on the series from 1987 to 1997, Geoffrey died earlier this week.
Helen Worth, who portrays Gail Platt on the show, expressed her condolences, stating: “Geoff was a lovely, quiet man who will be sadly missed by us all.”
Helen Worth further commented on Geoff Hinsliff’s time on Coronation Street, stating, “His partnership with Lynne Perry was something rather special, and they brought immense joy to viewers for many years.”
Geoff initially appeared on the iconic soap in 1963 and again in 1977, portraying different characters before returning in 1987 for his decade-long portrayal of Don Brennan.
During his 10-year tenure on Coronation Street, Geoff Hinsliff’s character, Don Brennan, became one of the show’s most infamous villains. Don was central to several gripping storylines, including kidnapping and attempted murder.
After purchasing MVB Motors from Mike Baldwin, Don grew resentful when the business went bankrupt. In a shocking twist, he attempted to murder Mike’s wife, Alma, by driving their car into a canal. Both survived the ordeal, but Don later made another attempt on Mike’s life, trying to run him over. His own story ended tragically when his car crashed into a viaduct and exploded.
Born in Leeds in 1937, Geoff trained at RADA, graduating in 1960 before making his TV debut in Z-Cars. His illustrious career spanned appearances in Adam Adamant Lives!, Dixon of Dock Green, UFO, Crown Court, The Professionals, and Heartbeat. He also portrayed a wireless operator in the film A Bridge Too Far.
Shortly after joining Coronation Street in 1977, Geoff appeared as a sergeant in The Professionals in the episode titled “When The Heat Cools Off.” In 1979, he portrayed Doctor Astrov in Chekhov’s Uncle Vanya at Leeds Playhouse, directed by Michael Attenborough.
Geoff Hinsliff also featured in the comedy-drama Brass and appeared in two episodes of Doctor Who. In more recent years, he had a small role in Holby City in 2010, portraying an alcoholic.
Geoff is survived by his wife Judith, whom he married in 1967 at St. Cecilia’s Church in Little Hadham, East Hertfordshire. The couple has one daughter, Gaby, who works as a journalist and columnist for The Guardian.
Fans have taken to social media to express their condolences, with one writing: “#CoronationStreet Legend Geoff Hinsliff, who played Don Brennan, has sadly passed away. RIP.” Others simply posted: “R.I.P. Don” and “R.I.P.”
