The actor has been inundated with support since making the announcement online
A former Waterloo Road star has been inundated with messages of support after revealing his father has taken his own life in a devastating social media post.
Reece Douglas joined the BBC school drama in 2009, taking on the role of student Denzil Kelly at the fictional school.
During his three-year stint on the programme, Denzil’s storyline explored his challenging home life and family circumstances, which contributed to his difficulties at school.
The well-loved character met a tragic end in series seven of Waterloo Road in 2012, when he died in a lorry accident whilst travelling to Scotland.
After leaving Waterloo Road, Reece went on to feature in several other BBC productions, including Doctors, Casualty and Holby City, reports the Manchester Evening News.
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In recent years, he has concentrated on his technology start-up venture, Social Plug, which works to ‘connect brands and agencies to content creators’.
Taking to Instagram on Thursday (October 30), Reece shared the heartbreaking news of his father’s death, posting a photograph of himself with his dad.
He wrote: “I love you so much dad. Knowing my dad recently, more so than ever, never did I truly know he’d take his life. I’m going to make you so proud.”
The post prompted an outpouring of condolences and support from Reece’s friends and followers following his father’s passing. Emmerdale’s Danny Miller expressed his condolences, saying: “Oh mate I’m so sorry! Sending loads of love brother.”
Anthony Quinn, a former Emmerdale and Hollyoaks actor, added: “Sorry to hear the news mate. Sending love and thoughts to you and family.”
Ryan Clayton, known for his role as Sergeant Mike Rutherford in Waterloo Road, wrote: “So sorry to hear this mate, big love to you and your family.”
Presenter Gemma Hepworth posted: “So sorry Reece. Sending all the love and strength.”
Radio presenter Dane Swindells also shared his sympathies, commenting: “So sorry to hear this @reecedouglas1. Thinking of you and your family. You’ll continue to make him proud everyday. Sending so much love.”
Anyone affected by this story can contact the Samaritans 24-hour helpline on 116 123, email jo@samaritans.org, visit a Samaritans branch in person or go to the Samaritans website.
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