The entertainment world is in mourning following the announcement of the death of actor Trevor A Toussaint, best known to UK audiences for playing shopkeeper Walter Deveraux in Channel 4's Hollyoaks. He was 65 years old.
A Trailblazing Career and a Private Loss
His management team confirmed the sad news in a formal statement on January 11, 2026, describing Toussaint as an 'enigmatic and loving' family man. The statement expressed the family's deep sadness and requested privacy as they come to terms with the loss of a devoted father, husband, grandfather, uncle, and friend.
Toussaint's portrayal of Walter Deveraux spanned 147 episodes from 2018 to 2022, a role that placed him at the heart of the soap's first black family. His performance made him a familiar and cherished figure in British living rooms.
Co-Stars Pay Heartfelt Tribute
Following the announcement, emotional tributes from colleagues and friends began to flood in. Kellé Bryan, who played his on-screen daughter Martine Deveraux on Hollyoaks and was also his agent for over two decades, led the remembrances.
In a poignant Instagram post, she highlighted his integrity and pioneering spirit. She revealed that Toussaint began acting in the 1970s, a time when roles for black actors were severely limited. He proudly wore waist-length dreadlocks for over a decade, defiantly challenging stereotypes. Bryan shared a powerful anecdote where he once refused to cut his hair for a lucrative role, stating a firm 'no'. She credited him for breaking boundaries and paving the way for others.
Richard Blackwood, his Hollyoaks co-star, recalled that his very first scene was with 'T', who pushed him to bring his 'A game', leading to a lasting friendship. Jessica Fox (Nancy Osborne) remembered him as a 'gentleman' fascinated by his incredible life stories, while former star Nikki Sanderson called him a 'lovely man' who took time for everyone.
A Legacy Across Stage and Screen
Beyond the Chester-based soap, Trevor A Toussaint enjoyed a varied and respected career. UK audiences will also recognise him from his role as Cedrik Verga in BBC's Death in Paradise. His other notable television credits included performances in Dreaming Whilst Black and Sulphur and White, showcasing his range and talent across different genres.
His passing marks the loss of a respected figure in British television, an actor whose dignity and talent left a significant mark on the industry and on all who knew him, both on and off the screen.
