Ross Kemp has announced the sad news that his beloved dad, John Kemp, has died at the age of 88.
The EastEnders legend, 61, paid tribute to his late dad in a moving post on social media ahead of his funeral, describing John as his “hero and role model”. Alongside a black-and-white photograph of his father in his army uniform, Ross wrote: “John Kemp 1937–2025.
"Served his country, served his community, served his family. My hero. Love you always, Dad.”
The actor and documentary-maker also reflected on some of his father’s best qualities, adding: “Burying my Dad tomorrow. My hero, my role model and a great dancer!”
The heartfelt message drew an outpouring of condolences from fans and colleagues. Ross's former EastEnders co-star James Farrar wrote: “Mate. What beautiful words. For a beautiful bloke.”
Patsy Palmer added: “Sending love to you & your family.” Coronation Street actress Lucy-Jo Hudson told Ross: “So sorry to hear your sad loss x”
John, who served in the Metropolitan Police, had a big influence on Ross’s life. The actor was born in Barking, Essex, where he grew up with his mum Jean, a hairdresser, and his dad John, a detective.
He once joked: “I take after both my parents – I can grill you then I can ask where you're going on your holiday.” Ross also shared his earliest memory of realising what it was his dad did for a living, saying: “I didn’t really realize he was a copper until I was a bit older. He just went to work in a suit but I realized soon enough when I saw him come home with a gun under his armpit.”
Rather than follow in his father’s footsteps, Ross pursued his passion for acting. After training for three years at the Douglas Webber Academy of Acting, he landed his first major role in Emmerdale as Graham Lodsworth, who just so happens to be an army deserter. “That seems to be a theme for me,” he acknowledged.
Earlier this year, Ross became visibly emotional during an episode of BBC’s Who Do You Think You Are?, which explored his family history.
The television star broke down in tears as he learned about his ancestors’ military service and the sacrifices they made. He apologised to historian Sarah Louise Miller at the time, saying he was “sorry for getting emotional”.
Away from television, Ross is a long-time ambassador for the Royal British Legion and a passionate supporter of the armed forces. This could be linked to his father’s service.
Last year, he trained with the Gurkhas to raise funds for the charity, saying: “The poppy is synonymous with service both present and past…we’re remembering people who suffered some sort of mental trauma linked to military service because often those scars are not apparent.”
Like this story? For more of the latest showbiz news and gossip, follow Mirror Celebs on TikTok , Snapchat , Instagram , Twitter , Facebook , YouTube and Threads .