‘He was my inspirational teacher and a good friend’: Cold Feet star James Nesbitt pays tribute to his late father as he dies aged 91
James Nesbitt’s father has passed away aged 91.
The Northern Irish actor, 55, has described his late father as a wonderful parent, teacher and friend as he honoured him in a statement on Friday afternoon.
James ‘Jim’ Nesbitt Snr was the former headmaster of a primary school at Lisnamurrican, near Broughshane in Co Antrim.
Tragic loss: James Nesbitt’s father has passed away aged 91
James said: ‘Dad wasn’t only a wonderful parent, he was my inspirational teacher and a good friend.
‘Generations of primary school children in rural Northern Ireland were taught a love of literature, arts, music, science and sport thanks to dad.’
Nesbitt played Adam in the popular television series Cold Feet.
He is chancellor of Ulster University.
Sweet: The Northern Irish actor, 55, has described his late father as a wonderful parent, teacher and friend as he honoured him in a statement on Friday afternoon
His father lived in the seaside village of Castlerock, Co Londonderry, and was pre-deceased by his wife May.
The actor said: ‘As well as being a brilliant teacher he was a passionate Coleraine football fan.
‘One of my most cherished memories is of being with him to watch Coleraine lift the Irish Cup two years ago at which dad was presented with Skinner Bradley’s winning medal.
‘He leaves behind a family who will miss him more than words can say and I speak for myself, and my sisters Margaret, Kathryn and Andrea, when I say that he was a truly great man, and a wonderful father, grandfather and great-grandfather.’
The University said: ‘On behalf of our staff, students and the wider Ulster University family, we extend our deepest condolences to Chancellor Dr James Nesbitt on the passing of his beloved father James. Our thoughts are with the Nesbitt family during this difficult time.’
Coleraine FC said he was a life-long supporter.
Chairman Colin McKendry said: ‘James got to know the players personally and travelled on the team bus to many of our big matches, including the Irish Cup win in 2018.’
He added: ‘Unfortunately he wasn’t able to go to many matches recently due to ill health but I’m sure he would have been proud of our efforts last season.
‘Not only was James a fantastic supporter, but he was also a great sponsor and we are indebted to him.’
Mr Nesbitt, whose wife May died in 2012, is survived by his children Margaret, Kathryn, Andrea and James.