Trevor A Toussaint: Hollyoaks Star and Trailblazing Actor Dies Aged 65

Beloved Hollyoaks Actor Passes Away

Hollyoaks star Trevor A Toussaint has died aged 65, his representatives have confirmed. The news, announced over the weekend, has sent shockwaves through the British entertainment community, with cast members, colleagues, and fans paying heartfelt tributes to the beloved actor who left an indelible mark on television.

A Legacy on Hollyoaks

The actor appeared on the Channel 4 soap from 2018 to 2022, portraying shopkeeper Walter Deveraux across 147 episodes. Trevor’s Walter was the father of Simone Loveday, and Martine and Melanie Deveraux. His portrayal made him part of the first Black family on the popular soap opera, a significant milestone in British television representation.

The news was confirmed by Kéllé Bryan, who portrayed Martine Deveraux, Toussaint’s on-screen daughter, in an Instagram post shared on January 10, 2026. Bryan, who also represented Toussaint as his agent for over 20 years, shared an emotional tribute highlighting his impact both personally and professionally.

Breaking Boundaries and Fighting Stereotypes

Toussaint’s career spanned decades and was marked by his unwavering commitment to authentic representation. Toussaint began acting in the 1970s, at “a time when Black actors were predominantly cast as criminals”. He wore his waist length dreds with pride for over 10 years, fighting against every stereotype, and once forthrightly said ‘no’ when asked to cut them for a lucrative role. He broke many boundaries and made a pathway for others.

Tributes Pour In From Co-Stars

Following the announcement, numerous former colleagues expressed their grief and admiration. Nikki Sanderson, formerly of Hollyoaks and Coronation Street, said: “Trevor was a lovely man who took time to talk with everyone he met, he was a gentleman.” Richard Blackwood, who portrayed Toussaint’s son-in-law Felix, wrote, “My very first scene was with T and he made me bring my A game! We were friends from that day on and off screen!”

Outside of his work on Hollyoaks, Trevor appeared on an episode of the BBC drama Death in Paradise in 2016. His family wish to thank you for your well wishes and support as they take this time to privately come to terms with their great loss of an enigmatic, loving father, husband, grandfather, uncle and friend.

Remembering a Trailblazer

Trevor A Toussaint will be remembered not only for his compelling performances but for his courage in challenging industry stereotypes and creating opportunities for future generations of Black actors. His legacy extends beyond the screen, serving as an inspiration to those who continue to fight for authentic representation in British television.