FAMOUS actors from the region have paid tribute to Oldham's David Johnson who helped 'kick start' dozens of careers.

The Oldham Theatre Workshop founder, described as a 'legend', died on Wednesday and his passing has been met with an outpouring from the heartbroken Greater Manchester acting community.

Johnson set the theatre up more than 50 years ago and was awarded a British Empire Medal (BEM) as part of the 2019 New Year's Honours.

Among those to pay tribute was Kelvin Fletcher, the Oldhamer best known for playing Andy Sugden on Emmerdale.

He paid tribute on Twitter, saying Johnson was "singlehandedly the biggest influence" on his career and was the reason behind his career.

He added: "I know I speak for so many. Thank you David Johnson. What a legacy."

Former Coronation Street actor and star of Doctor Foster and Gentleman Jack, Suranne Jones, posted a picture of Johnson, saying "Rip David and thank you".

 

Sacha Dhawan, known for his role as Akhtar in The History Boys as well as appearances in Line of Duty, Doctor Who and The Great, was another to pay tribute on Twitter.

He wrote: "This man taught me to never be afraid of making bold choices.

"I thank you sir for helping me lay those important foundations as you did for many just like me."

 

Antony Cotton, who plays Sean Tully on Coronation Street, wrote on Twitter: "He put so many of us on the map, and kick-started so many careers, both on stage and off.

"So many of us owe him so much. I’m absolutely gutted."

Cotton also shared a tribute from Alison King, who plays Carla Connor on Coronation Street.

In her tribute, King wrote Johnson was "my maker of all things that I am, and where I am today".

She described Johnson as "intuitive and insightful" and said although he was strict, he was "the kindest man" she had ever known.

Lisa Riley, known for playing Mandy Dingle on Emmerdale and for appearing as a panellist on Loose Women, paid tribute on Instagram, writing: "I know I speak for many of my fellow actors in the industry, we wouldn’t be where we are today without this legend of a man.

"I owe so much to you David, you know how much I loved you."