It is with sadness that Grange Hill Gold has to report that George Armstrong who played Alan Humphries between series 1 and 5 and in all three series of spin-off Tucker’s Luck, has passed away. George had been fighting leukaemia in recent years, yet remained upbeat and positive. His death lead to a huge outpouring of sadness from Grange Hill fans who had engaged with the character from episode 1.
However, behind the scenes, George proved himself to be even more likable than Alan with cast paying tribute to him.
Co-star Todd Carty who played Alan’s best mate Tucker said in a statement he was “so sorry to hear about George’s passing. I loved working with him and we hit it off straight away. Working on Grange Hill with George were some of the happiest days of my life. He was a kind, modest and humble man, and was always there for others and he always ‘had your back’. My deepest sympathies to his family at this time. You will never be forgotten my friend.'”
Robert Craig Morgan, who played Justin Bennett and was George’s closest friend off set said “Goodbye my friend. I loved you George xx”.
Claire Scott actress, Paula Ann Bland posted online “Kind, funny, loyal and 100% goodness….. Georgie my dear friend I can’t believe you’ve gone. Absolutely gutted
Rest In Peace sweet angel I’ll miss you coming over and ‘fiddling’ with my electrics…. Made me laugh so much ….. your friendship, love and loyalty will forever be in my heart”.
Tucker’s Luck and Grange Hill co star, Paul McCarthy (Tommy Watson) said : “So sad, he was a bright light, always had a smile and a laugh, even through the worst of times. I’m going to miss the big man.”
Roland actor, Erkan Mustafa posted the following tribute : “I first met this man when I was 11 years old, he was Alan Humphries to me back then. Over the years he simply become George the most funnest, warmest, talented, with a giggle to die for, he was one of the most nicest people you could ever have around you. The last number of years he become one of the strongest, bravest of men, a true warrior he put up a fight like Rocky and won so many rounds but the last bell has now rang. You will be missed by all that have ever set eyes you, spent time with you and lucky enough to have you in their life. “
Grange Hill Gold was fortunate enough to meet George several times and in 2018 carried out an interview with him about his time on Grange Hill. You can read this here.
Grange Hill podcast, Sausage On A Fork will dedicate their next episode to George, making it a tribute to him with cast reminiscences and tributes. Grange Hill Gold was honoured to be able to provide audio from our interview with George for this upcoming episode.
Grange Hill Gold 