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(Image: rex)

The actor played the classic character from 1998 until 2000.

He went on to play the same role in Hollyoaks from 2000 to 2004.

Kristian also played Ringo Starr in the TV film In His Life: The John Lennon Story.

The exact cause of Kris' death is unknown.

(Image: ch4)

He was cast as an extra in an episode of Bread back in 1997.

He was also a keen musician and was a member of Liverpool based band Tramp Attack.

Tributes for Kristian have flooded Twitter as his former co-stars have paid their respects.

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Suzanne Collins, who played Nikki Shadwick in Brookside, posted: "He was brilliant to work with, he was loads of fun.

"He was a fantastic actor, but you should have heard him sing. Musically he was so good, he loved to sing and play the guitar.

"It’s terrible terrible news. He lived for his young son Jakey. I’m so shocked and gutted."

Leon Lopez, who played Jerome Johnson, tweeted: "Am absolutely heart broken by the news about @Smithdownslim ! Such a lovely soul! RIP X"

While musician Pete Wylie wrote: "So very sad to hear the shocking news about Kris Ealey.

"Always a power for good, whether music or mood. Gonna be missed big time. Love to all those left behind."