Television personality Ross Kemp has revealed that his father has died, announcing the news through social media this week.
The 61-year-old performer, famous for his portrayal of Grant Mitchell in the BBC soap opera EastEnders, posted an emotional message on Instagram late on Wednesday honouring John Kemp.
The announcement came in the hours after the actor laid his father to rest. On Facebook on Tuesday, Mr Kemp had shared the plans to lay his father to rest.
On the social media site, Mr Kemp penned: “Burying my dad tomorrow. My hero, my role model and a great dancer!”
Ross Kemp
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PALate on Wednesday night after the funeral, he wrote in an Instagram update: “John Kemp 1937 – 2025. Served his country, served his community, served his family. My hero. Love you always Dad.”
Fans and famous faces alike rushed to share their condolences to the former EastEnders star. “Sending love to you & your family,” actress Patsy Palmer penned.
“All the best mate, very sorry for your loss,” fellow soap star Max Bowden added while Emma Barton weighed in: “Sending love Ross,” followed by love heart emojis
“So sorry to hear your sad loss x,” Lucy-Jo Hudson echoed while Ian Beale actor Adam Woodyatt posted a series of love-heart emojis to show his support. (sic)
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Two photographs accompanied the heartfelt messages posted by the actor. One image showed John Kemp enjoying time at a seaside location, whilst another black and white photograph captured him during his military service years.
The touching tributes highlighted the deep bond between father and son, with Mr Kemp emphasising his father’s multifaceted legacy.
John Kemp lived from 1937 to 2025, spanning nearly nine decades of dedication to various forms of service.
His son characterised him as someone who devoted himself to serving his nation, supporting his local community, and caring for his relatives.
The former soldier’s life encompassed multiple roles, from his time in the armed forces to his responsibilities as a family man.
Mr Kemp’s tributes painted a picture of a man who balanced public duty with private devotion, leaving behind a legacy that clearly resonated deeply with his famous son.
The soap opera veteran, who became a household name through his role in EastEnders, shared this personal loss during a year that had already seen him exploring family history.
Earlier in 2025, the actor had appeared on Who Do You Think You Are?, where he investigated his maternal lineage and discovered previously unknown details about his great-grandfather’s wartime experiences.
Ross Kemp’s EastEnders co-stars rushed to support him
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PA
During that programme, Mr Kemp had become visibly moved whilst learning about his ancestor’s survival of a German attack on a troop ship in 1943.
The emotional journey of uncovering family secrets appears to have given him a deeper appreciation of his heritage, making this week’s farewell to his father particularly poignant.