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Coronation Street stars pay tribute to boss who launched their careers after his sudden death

Heartbroken Coronation Street and Emmerdale stars paid tribute after the man who kickstarted their careers suddenly passed away.

"Star-maker" David Johnson was the director of the Oldham Theatre Workshop, which he set up more than fifty years ago, and Anna Friel, Suranne Jones and Anne Kirkbride are just a few of his success stories.

Corrie actor Anthony Cotton, who also trained with David, took to his Twitter account to say: "Just heard the saddest news.

"David Johnson who was the director of the phenomena that was Oldham Theatre Workshop, has died. He put so many of us on the map, and kick started so many careers, both on stage and off."

OLDHAM THEATRE WORKSHOP David Johnson, who set up Oldham Theatre Workshop more than fifty years ago, has passed away

Antony continued: "So many of us owe him so much. I'm absolutely gutted. This is David Johnson. He formed my childhood so profoundly, and in turn - my adult life too.

"Those years were the best years of my life. Rest in Power David. You were the best x."

In another post, Antony shares a sweet tribute to David from Alison King.

"Our friend Alison King, who has no social media accounts, wanted me to post this on her behalf," he said.

Antony added: "She adored David Johnson so felt like she need to put this out there x."

Antony Cotton Twitter Alison King penned a heartbreaking tribute

Meanwhile, Emmerdale's Kelvin Fletcher heartbreakingly tweeted: "Singlehandedly the biggest influence on my career and arguably, the reason behind my career.

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

Lisa Riley added: "REST IN PEACE.

"For all of us whom were taught by David Johnson….today is a very sad day, 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.

 Getty Images Lisa Riley also shared an emotional tribute

"All the impressions I did of you….heaven is lit today as it welcomes a creative master, who will be missed by us ALL!!! R.I.P".

The cause of David's passing is not known.

A spokesman for David's theatre workshop said: "Sorry for the delay in posting, but it's all very overwhelming.

"Yesterday we lost our founder, figurehead but most of all our friend David. We're heartbroken.

"I will endeavour to reply to everyone's kind messages as soon as I can. Jakki x."

Reference: Jabeen Waheed: OK