Friends pray for Dirty Den actor

LEGENDARY EastEnders actor Leslie Grantham “remains poorly” in hospital, his agent confirmed last night.

The statement came after Grantham, 71, was reported to be fighting for his life in critical condition.

The actor played Queen Vic landlord “Dirty” Den Watts in the BBC soap for six years, with two stints between 1985 and 2005.

He returned to the UK from Bulgaria, where he now lives, and friends have reportedly been visiting him in hospital.

He split from his wife of 31 years, Jane, in 2013.

His spokeswoman confirmed yesterday: “He remains poorly and is being taken care of by medical staff.” Poorly... soap star Leslie A friend added: “Leslie is being looked after. Those who are close to him are hugely worried and are praying for his wellbeing.” A 1986 Christmas Day episode of EastEnders drew an audience of more than 30 million viewers, while 16 million viewers tuned in to see Den killed off in February 2005.