Legendary actor Robert Carrickford has passed away aged 88.

The sad news broke last night that the former Glenroe star has died after a long illness.

He became a household name here when he played Stephen Brennan in the popular RTE soap.

Carrickford also performed at the Abbey Theatre between 1969 and 1980.

He was known too for being a union activist and was a dedicated member of he Irish Actors’ Equity Group- a branch of Siptu that represents people in the acting industry.

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President Michael D Higgins spoke fondly of Carrickford’s legacy last night.

He said in a statement: “It is with great sadness that I learned of the death of Robert Carrickford, the actor of Abbey Theatre and TV fame.

“For many, Robert will forever be the face of Stephen Brennan in the iconic Glenroe TV series, while others will fondly remember his long spell in various significant roles in the Abbey Theatre, as well as his performances in The Riordans and Bracken.

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“In his capacity of President of the Irish Actors Equity, the trade union for stage actors and his contribution to the trade union movement, he left a lasting legacy for all those who perform in Ireland’s theatres and screens."
He is survived by his wife Mary, daughter and grandchildren.

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