Kym Marsh left heartbroken as she mourns family tragedy following death of onscreen father Frank Grimes

by

Kym Marsh is deeply grieving, having suffered twin blows with the passing of her cherished cousin and on-screen father, Frank Grimes, only a few days apart.

The actress who was once on the popular TV show “Coronation Street,” now 41 years old, used Instagram to honor her cousin Carl by expressing that his departure will leave an immense void in all of our lives that can never be replaced.

In a bright photo featuring Carl, he poignantly wrote: “I find it hard to accept that I’m penning this. Today marks the heart-wrenching farewell for us as a family to Carl. My dear cousin. A legend in the eyes of everyone who was fortunate enough to know him.

As a devoted admirer, it feels as if the sun set prematurely, leaving an insurmountable void in our world. This void, this gaping chasm, remains forever unfilled. At times like these, the intricacies of life seem bewildering and unjustifiable. There are instances when I simply cannot comprehend how such heartless events can befall kind-hearted souls.

On occasions like this, Carl was simply extraordinary – a blend of kindness, humor, and individuality that I’ve seldom encountered. The recollections I cherish most are those from our shared childhood, the camping trips with the family, the laughter, your playful antics, your unwavering loyalty.

She went on saying, “You were truly unique, and I’ll mourn you forever. If only I could be present today to express my last farewell, but I believe you understand the depth of my love for you.

Additionally, I understand that you’d likely encourage me to snap out of it and quit the tears, and that you’d want me continuing on my path as planned. Nevertheless, the absence doesn’t diminish my longing to be with you, or my thoughts drifting towards my family today, or the sorrow that envelops me, or the desire to alleviate this hardship for everyone involved.

Instead of: “Before adding: ‘I know that the family will give you the best send off cuz and that they will do you proud. We will love you forever and always. Good night god bless my wonderful cousin. Sleep tight.'”

You could say: “As I prepare to add this, let me express that your family will certainly arrange a fitting farewell for you and make you proud. Rest assured, our affection for you is eternal. Goodnight, God bless, and sleep well, my cherished cousin.

A few days ago, news broke about the passing of Frank, the actor who portrayed Kym’s on-screen father Barry (Michelle O’Connor’s dad in the soap) at the age of 78, after a brief bout with illness.

Kym first appeared on Coronation Street from 2006 before quitting the role in 2019. 

On the sad note, the cherished actor and Tony Award contender breathed his last on August 1st, encompassed by his loved ones. An official reason for his demise has yet to be disclosed.

In a heartfelt announcement, the Irish Cultural Centre in London confirmed the passing of Grimes, who they revered as one of Ireland’s most distinguished actors.

In a heartfelt recognition, it was noted that he was incredibly kind-hearted, brimming with the clever humor unique to Dublin, and his charisma seemed endless. Furthermore, there was an undeniable radiance in his eyes.

With profound sorrow and a heart full of grief, I must share the devastating news that the esteemed Irish actor, Frank Grimes, left us unexpectedly early on the morning of August 1st, following a swift illness. He was blessed to be with his beloved wife and family during his final moments.

Frank was truly one of Ireland’s most accomplished actors. He held a special place in the hearts of the ICC community, having performed on their stage numerous times over the past 30 years. Those who witnessed Frank’s riveting self-written production ‘The He and the She of It…A Portrait of James Joyce’ would agree that it was an unforgettable, captivating, and powerful performance.

Three times at the ICC, Frank paid an outstanding homage to his knowledgeable hero, James Joyce, each evening drawing standing ovations. A captivating performer with a striking, hypnotic voice, Frank frequently graced the airwaves on the radio program ‘Bright Side Of The Road’.

‘They went on to say: ‘Frank Grimes hails from Dublin. He honed his craft at the Abbey Theatre and became a part of the Abbey Players. His career took off with a notable performance as Brendan Behan in Borstal Boy, which was staged at the Abbey in Dublin, Paris, and on Broadway. This role earned him a Tony Award nomination for Best Actor and recognition as ‘Most Promising Actor’ by New York critics.’

Frank has a rich background in London’s theater scene, having worked extensively with notable companies such as the National Theatre, Royal Shakespeare Company, Royal Court, and in the West End. His film and television roles span across various productions, including A Bridge Too Far, Tulips of Harlem, The Outsider.

In the play ‘Strumpet City,’ he portrayed Father O’Conner, earning him the Jacobs Award. His roles in ‘Kavanagh QC’ and ‘Blind Justice’ netted him the Silver Nymph for best actor. Additionally, he made appearances in ‘Mrs Brown’s Boys’ and took on the character of Barry in ‘Coronation Street’.

He composed multiple plays, such as ‘The Fishing Trip’ and ‘Wake n See’, which were read aloud at the ICC. His critically acclaimed one-man show on James Joyce, titled ‘…the he and the she of it…’, was initially performed here at the ICC. Following its success, it was later produced in Dublin, London, and Paris.

As a lifestyle enthusiast, I can confidently say that Frank was not just a warm-hearted individual, but a radiant embodiment of Dublin’s unique wit and charm. His eyes sparkled with a magic that was truly captivating, a quality that made him stand out from the crowd. It is with a heavy heart that I acknowledge Ireland has lost one of its exceptional actors, a talent as rare as fine vintage wine, whose likes may never be seen again in the same light.

It’s regretful for us to announce that we must bid farewell to Frank, a man whose presence we will truly miss. Yet, we are immensely grateful for the time we shared with him, both professionally and personally, and for witnessing his exceptional performances. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to his beloved wife Ginnette during this difficult time.

To Tilly, Andrew, their seven grandkids, and the entire extended family, we extend our deepest sympathies. Similarly, to all of Frank’s dear friends and companions, our condolences are also with you. May Frank now find eternal peace and a peaceful rest.

They added a video of Frank reciting a series of poems, that he had recorded during the Covid-19 lockdown, to support their statement.

After the announcement, fans expressed their condolences to the departed celebrity by filling up the comment section with tributes.

Hailing from Cabra in 1947 as the seventh-born among siblings, he achieved early recognition for his role in the play “Borstal Boy” in Dublin. The production later moved to London and Paris after its successful run in Dublin.

The performance was incredibly well-received, eventually transferring to Broadway. There, Grimes earned a Tony nomination and was recognized as Most Promising Actor by New York’s critic circle.

The Abbey Theatre expresses its deep sorrow upon hearing about the demise of actor, Frank Grimes.

‘Frank, a talented thespian with experience in the Abbey Company, graced both the Abbey and Peacock stages from 1965 to 1972. During this period, he appeared in numerous productions, ranging from plays penned by Sean O’Casey, Lady Gregory, Oliver Goldsmith, Thomas Kilroy, J.M. Synge, William Shakespeare, Bernard Shaw, and Tom MacIntyre.’

Read More

2025-08-08 19:22