Peter Rose dies: EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale director remembered as tributes pour in

Peter Rose, the acclaimed television director whose work helped shape EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale, has died, prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the British television industry.

The respected director passed away on Saturday, January 17, with the news confirmed days later through emotional social media posts shared by close friends and former colleagues. Rose’s death marks the loss of one of the most influential behind-the-scenes figures in UK soap history, a creative force responsible for some of the genre’s most memorable moments.

A Career That Defined British Soap Television

Peter Rose’s television career spanned several decades, during which he became a trusted creative hand across Britain’s biggest continuing dramas.

His most extensive work was on ITV’s Coronation Street, where he directed 111 episodes between 2011 and 2024, helping guide the long-running soap through some of its most emotionally charged storylines.

At BBC’s EastEnders, Rose directed 126 episodes from 2003 to 2010, playing a key role during one of the show’s most dramatic eras. His connection to Emmerdale endured until the very end of his career, with his final episode airing on January 1, 2025.

The Man Behind One of Coronation Street’s Most Iconic Scenes

Among Rose’s most celebrated achievements was his direction of the now-legendary “Deirdre throws the trifle” dinner-party scene in Coronation Street.

The explosive October 2014 moment, featuring Deirdre Barlow hurling a trifle against the wall, became an instant classic and earned Rose a Scene of the Year nomination at the 2015 British Soap Awards, recognition that cemented his legacy within the industry.

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Work Beyond the Big Three Soaps

While soaps defined much of his public reputation, Rose’s influence extended far beyond them.

Earlier in his career, he worked on the popular 1980s drama Howards’ Way, as well as Brookside, Family Affairs, and Crossroads. His broader television credits included productions such as the Enid Blyton Adventure Series, Trainer, Virtual Murder, and Come Outside, showcasing his versatility as a director across genres.

Friends and Colleagues Share Emotional Tributes

The news of Rose’s death was confirmed by screenwriter and author Harry Duffin, who shared a tribute on Facebook alongside a photo of Rose by the seaside.

“It is very sad to say that a great friend of ours, Peter Rose has died last weekend,” Duffin wrote, recalling their first collaboration on Howards’ Way in the 1980s.
“He was a lovely man, and Chris and I will miss him very much.”

Duffin also spoke of Rose’s long-term friendship, shared holidays in Spain, and enduring warmth away from the studio.

Writer Kathryn Davies paid tribute on Instagram, describing his death as sudden and deeply shocking, adding:

“Happy we did lunch in December… Bless you.”

Former colleagues echoed similar sentiments, describing Rose as “fun,” “witty,” and deeply kind, with many expressing disbelief at the loss.

A Quiet Legend Whose Legacy Lives On

Though rarely in the spotlight, Peter Rose’s creative fingerprints are woven into hundreds of episodes watched by millions of viewers over decades. His calm authority, storytelling instincts and collaborative spirit earned him respect across broadcasters, casts and crews alike.

As tributes continue to pour in, Rose is remembered not only as a prolific director, but as a genuinely warm presence behind the camera, a man whose work helped define British television storytelling.

FAQ

Who was Peter Rose?

Peter Rose was a highly respected British television director best known for his work on EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale.

When did Peter Rose die?

Peter Rose died on Saturday, January 17, with the news confirmed by friends and colleagues in late January 2026.

What soaps did Peter Rose work on?

He directed episodes of Coronation Street, EastEnders, Emmerdale, Brookside, Family Affairs and Crossroads.

How many episodes did Peter Rose direct?

Rose directed 111 episodes of Coronation Street and 126 episodes of EastEnders, alongside numerous episodes of Emmerdale.

What was Peter Rose’s most famous scene?

One of his most iconic moments was the Deirdre Barlow trifle-throwing scene, which earned a British Soap Awards nomination.

Was Peter Rose still working before his death?

Yes. His final Emmerdale episode aired on January 1, 2025, just weeks before his death.