Former EastEnders and Love Actually star, Martine McCutcheon, has been left heartbroken over the sudden death of her brother. "My heart is forever broken," she said in a tear-jerking message to fans as she confirmed the sudden death of her younger brother LJ.
Laurence John - who Martine refers to as LJ, her 'gentle giant - died suddenly a few weeks ago. She said there was "no medical explanation" for his death at just 31.
Posting two pictures on Instagram, one of herself with with brother and another of him in a bar, the well known actor, 46, explained that her brother was born when she was 15 years old, and said: "From the moment I first held him in my arms, I felt so proud and fiercely protective of him. He was such a character!
"He made us all laugh and loved nothing more than making a plan, having a great play list, bringing people together and generally having a giggle. He hated the thought of a party ending and so was always on to the next thing!"
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As the post continues, Martine refers to her sibling as "my anchor, my radar of what really mattered in life". She goes on to explain that her brother was due to get married next month and that she was asked to be bridesmaid. Adding: "And the last time I saw him, was a few days before he passed." They'd been to a suit fitting along with Martine's husband Jack McManus.
Ending the post, she said: "I'm scared to live without you LJ but I know you will want us to truly live, laugh and love in your memory. I will try I promise." Martine's followers soon reacted to the heart-breaking news. In just one hour over 19k reactions were registered and 1.8k comments.
Singer and presenter, Myleene Klass, wrote: "Martine. My heart is utterly broken for you. I am so very sorry." Fellow actors joined in the comments. Sheridan Smith added: "Oh I am so sorry Martine" with Claire Sweeney saying: "Darling I'm so sorry to hear this." Comments and condolences continue to roll in from famous names and fans.
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