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Entertainment

04th Apr 2022

‘Everyone knows a Dot Cotton’: Tributes pour in for June Brown

Danny Jones

Industry peers and fans alike pay tribute to a soap legend

London comedian Mo Gilligan has summed up exactly why June Brown transcended the small screen and will forever be a cultural icon to the British public following her death on Sunday.

The London comedian was one of many from the world of entertainment to pay tribute to Brown, who played Dot Cotton on EastEnders for more than 30 years, after news of her death broke on Monday.

Gilligan said Brown had an “amazing career”, adding: “If you grew up in an estate there was always a Dot Cotton. Absolute iconic character.”

Brown was a veteran of the soap, playing the chain-smoking gossip from down the road, and will forever remain one of our most beloved and relatable characters.

EastEnders released a touching statement following the announcement, saying “there are not enough words” to describe how much Brown was “loved and adored” and how her “warmth, wit and great humour will never be forgotten”.

The lasting impression she made on those who encountered her in the industry and through the box at home is clear to see from the heartfelt messages online:

Stephen Fry also took the time to praise Brown’s “wonderful human qualities and achievements” noting the “tireless and fearless” work she did as an LGBTQ+ ally.

Brown was awarded both an OBE and MBE for her services not only to drama but through her charity work as well.

Deputy Labour leader Angela Rayner also paid tribute to “an incredible character on and off the screen”, adding, “she will be missed by millions”.

Outside of the entertainment world itself, fans who grew to know and love Brown from the sofa have also been paying testament to her long and successful career.

One particular clip of her meeting Lady Gaga on The Graham Norton Show is warming hearts, not to mention serving as a timely reminder of her comic chops”

Rest in peace, Dot.

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