Trevor A Toussaint, the beloved actor best known for his role as Walter Deveraux in the Channel 4 soap Hollyoaks, has died at the age of 65, his representatives confirmed on January 11, 2026. The announcement, made by his management team Advocate Agency, described Toussaint as an “enigmatic and loving” family man, a sentiment echoed by the many tributes that poured in from friends, colleagues, and fans alike.
“It is with deep sadness that we formally announce the passing of Trevor A Toussaint,” the statement began, as reported by Metro, Daily Mail, and Digital Spy. “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.”
Toussaint’s passing leaves a profound void in the British television landscape. He appeared in 147 episodes of Hollyoaks between 2018 and 2022, becoming a familiar and much-loved presence in households across the UK. His portrayal of Walter Deveraux, the wise and sometimes stern shopkeeper, resonated deeply with viewers and castmates alike.
The tributes began almost immediately after the news broke. Kellé Bryan, who played Toussaint’s on-screen daughter Martine Deveraux and also served as his agent for more than 20 years, led the outpouring of grief and remembrance. On Instagram, Bryan shared a series of behind-the-scenes photos and a heartfelt message: “Been finding it hard to find the words to pay tribute to this man @trevoratoussaint. Gone, but has left such an imprint on my heart. I had the privilege to represent him as his agent for over 20 years. He played @jacqui_boats and I’s father in @hollyoaksofficial which was a dream to be part of the legacy of the first black family on the show.”
Bryan’s tribute went beyond personal memories, highlighting Toussaint’s pioneering role in the industry. She recalled, “Trevor started acting in the 70’s, 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. Once asked to cut them in order to book a lucrative role, he forthrightly said ‘no’. He broke many boundaries and made a pathway for others.” Her words, reported by Daily Mail and Digital Spy, underscore the significance of Toussaint’s career not just for himself, but for generations of black actors who followed.
Richard Blackwood, who played Felix Westwood in Hollyoaks, remembered his first scene with Toussaint fondly: “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! You will be missed big bro. RIP sir.” Blackwood’s tribute, as cited by Metro and OK! Magazine, reflects the camaraderie and respect Toussaint inspired among his peers.
Jessica Fox, currently playing Nancy Osborne in the soap, also shared her sadness: “Very sad to read this, he was such a gentleman, and I was fascinated by the stories of his incredible life.” Her words, echoed across social media and reported by several outlets, point to Toussaint’s reputation as a storyteller and a source of inspiration on set.
Former Hollyoaks star Nikki Sanderson added her voice to the tributes, describing Toussaint as “a lovely man who took time to talk with everyone he met, he was a gentleman. He was always so kind with me. Sending lots of love to you and all of his family and friends. RIP xxx.”
Other colleagues, such as Grantchester star Rishi Nair and former EastEnders actor Ricky Norwood, also expressed their condolences and admiration. Nair recalled, “This is such heartbreaking news. Had some of the best chats with this gent of a man in the green room at Hollyoaks. Will miss him dearly. Sending love to all his loved ones.” Norwood described Toussaint as “a diamond of a man” who will be missed by many.
Toussaint’s impact on British television extended beyond Hollyoaks. He appeared in other notable roles, including Cedrik Verga in Death in Paradise, Freddie in Dreaming Whilst Black, and Pastor Henry in Sulphur and White. His diverse career showcased his range and his commitment to portraying characters with dignity and depth, even in an industry that often offered limited opportunities for black actors.
As Bryan noted in her tribute, Toussaint’s career began in the 1970s, a time when black actors in the UK were rarely given roles outside of negative stereotypes. Yet, he persevered, refusing to compromise on his identity or his values. “He wore his waist length dreds with pride for over 10 years, fighting against every stereotype,” Bryan wrote. “Once asked to cut them in order to book a lucrative role, he forthrightly said ‘no’. He broke many boundaries and made a pathway for others.”
The significance of Toussaint’s work was not lost on his colleagues or on the wider community. His role as the patriarch of the Deveraux family marked the introduction of the first black family on Hollyoaks, a milestone in the show’s history. For Bryan and others, being part of this legacy was “a dream,” and Toussaint’s leadership both on and off screen helped pave the way for more inclusive storytelling in British soaps.
Following his departure from Hollyoaks in 2022, the show’s official Twitter account posted: “Wishing all the best to Trevor A. Toussaint. Thank you for bringing us Walter! So many fantastic moments, we really are going to miss you! Love from all of us at team Hollyoaks!”
In reflecting on Toussaint’s legacy, it’s clear that his contributions went far beyond the roles he played. He was, by all accounts, a mentor, a friend, and a trailblazer. His refusal to conform to limiting industry expectations and his commitment to authenticity inspired those around him. As Bryan put it, “He broke many boundaries and made a pathway for others.”
As tributes continue to pour in, the impact of Trevor A Toussaint’s life and work will be felt for years to come. His family, friends, and fans are left to mourn his loss, but also to celebrate a career that challenged norms, opened doors, and left an indelible mark on British television.
Toussaint’s story is a reminder of the power of perseverance, integrity, and representation. In the world of soaps and beyond, he will be remembered not just for the characters he brought to life, but for the lives he touched along the way.
