Dennis Waterman's ex-wife reveals cause of death
The ex-wife of beloved Minder star Dennis Waterman has revealed his cause of death after dying at the age of 74.
The legendary actor passed away in bed with his wife Pam beside him and it has only now been revealed that he suffered a two year battle with lung cancer.
His ex-wife and mother of his two daughters Patricia Maynard revealed the cause of his death a few days later.
“I'm terribly sad that he's gone but I'm really pleased that he did not suffer and died peacefully,” she told MailOnline.
“He had lung cancer and was really quite poorly for the last couple of years. The girls are very upset.”
Patricia went on to reflect on her relationship with the legendary star saying that despite it not working out, at least he was happy.
“The years that Dennis and I were together were happy. Obviously, it didn't work out but lots of marriages don't work out for whatever reason,” she continued.
“But I'm so glad he had found the right woman at the end. I think he was very happy with Pam and she was with him when he passed.”
Dennis’s death was announced on Sunday with the family releasing a statement for privacy as tributes flowed through.
“We are deeply saddened to announce that our beloved Dennis passed away very peacefully at his home in Spain. The family kindly ask that our privacy is respected at this very difficult time,” the statement read.
His daughter, EastEnders star Hannah Waterman, also took to Instagram to share a heartwarming throwback photo of Dennis cradling her as a baby.
"Me and my Dad! Gosh how I loved him. X,” the 46-year-old captioned the photo.
The post was met with several tributes to the late actor who starred in Minder, The Sweeney, New Tricks, Where The Heart Is, The Canterbury Tales and Moses.
"I’m so sorry for your loss, Hannah. My late ex-husband worked with your Dad on Stay Lucky and often talked about the laughs they had x Dennis Waterman was a national treasure xxx,” one person wrote.
"Very sorry for your loss Hannah, may Dennis RIP. I love watching the Sweeney and Minder time to time and Dennis was brilliant in both. Let's Chelsea win the Cup for him on Saturday,” another commented.
"I’m so sorry for your loss and my deepest condolences to you. My Dad worked with him four times on stage and screen", a third remembered,” another added.
Image: Instagram