EastEnders praised for paying tribute to the late Michael Leader

Sad news.

EastEnders viewers have been praising the show for paying tribute to one of their extras, Michael Leader, who sadly passed away. Michael began as an extra for the soap back on the very first episode. Since then he's gone on to have a few lines but mainly remained as an extra fulfilling his role as the local milkman. EastEnders issued a statement following his death yesterday saying: "We were terribly saddened to hear that our dear friend and colleague Michael Leader passed away on Monday. "Michael has been on the show since the very first episode and will be sorely missed by the EastEnders family, past and present. "Our thoughts and deepest sympathies are extended to his nearest and dearest." They also dedicated tonight's show to him and people have been praising them for it.

In memory of Michael Leader - 1938 - 2016. pic.twitter.com/X44Um0AFHB

— BBC EastEnders (@bbceastenders) September 13, 2016

Lovely to see todays @bbceastenders ep dedicated to Michael Leader! Nice to know the extras are just a well thought of as the main cast #RIP — SteamTeam (@SteamTeam3211) September 13, 2016

I salute Michael Leader, Walford's milkman from the very beginning. May you rest in peace. #EastEnders @bbceastenders

— Tom (@TheBritishTom) September 13, 2016

Rest In Peace Michael Leader, the milkman of Walford. #Eastenders pic.twitter.com/63v3glReYK — ✝ Michael ✝ (@AmberBeattieFan) September 13, 2016

Fitting tribute from @bbceastenders tonight in loving memory of the late and great Michael Leader. We'll miss you Michael, RIP. #EastEnders

— James Lynch (@jamestlynch99) September 13, 2016

Great to see episode dedicated to the lovely Michael Leader #EastEnders — Jim Vogiatzis (@jimvogiatzis) September 13, 2016