TV Icon Tony Adams Passes Away at 84, Fans and Co-stars Pay Heartfelt Tributes to ‘Crossroads’ Legend

Veteran British soap actor Tony Adams, renowned for his iconic portrayal of Adam Chance in the beloved series Crossroads, has passed away at the age of 84. Tributes have been pouring in for the esteemed actor, who died at Sussex County Hospital in Brighton on Saturday, with his wife Christine at his side. Born Anthony Sawley Adams in 1940 on the island of Anglesey, Wales, he honed his craft at the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts before making his on-screen debut. Following his early stage career, Adams gained prominence with roles such as Dr. Neville Bywaters in the 1970s soap opera General Hospital and in the 1973 Doctor Who series, The Green Death.

By 1978, Adams had become a household name with his memorable role as the suave accountant Adam Chance in the popular soap Crossroads. The series concluded in 1988 after more than 4,500 episodes, with Adams remaining a key player until the very end. He later reprised his role in the 2001 revival alongside original co-stars Jane Rossington and Kathy Staff. Paying tribute, Michael Rose of The Michael Rose Organisation Ltd, praised Adams as an “absolute joy,” describing him as “one of the warmest gentlemen you could wish to work with.”

Rose further reflected on Adams’ versatility, stating, “Tony was originally a dancer, but there was nothing he couldn’t do. He was a very accomplished actor, a skilled dancer, and a talented singer.”

“He played Grandpa Potts in Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and was a joy to have in the company, as he was in every company. We shall miss him dearly,” Rose added.

Augustus Prew, who appeared alongside Adams in the series Nolly and portrayed him in a drama, fondly remembered Adams as a “magical man” during recent interviews, highlighting the lasting impact of his vibrant personality and profound talent.

In 2023, the actor made a cameo appearance in Nolly, a three-part drama by Russell T Davies which tells the story of Crossroads actress Noele Gordon.

During his life, Tony spoke fondly about his role in Crossroads and revealed that he had kept in close contact with some cast members.

Reflecting on his favourite moment on the show, the late actor shared: “My favourite storyline has to be Adam and Jill’s honeymoon in Venice.” Tony also admitted his role on the show saw him somewhat typecast as an actor.

“To some extent, yes,” he said when asked. “Although I have played a wide range of roles since Adam including Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof, Von Trapp in Sound of Music, Higgins in My Fair Lady none of whom are exactly villainous. In pantomime, however, I am usually cast as the villain which I love.”

Heartbroken fans issued their emotional tributes on social media, as one penned: “Such sad news, RIP Tony Adams. Wonderful actor. Now reunited with Nolly in that great Motel in the sky.”

Another added: “RIP Tony Adams, kind and supportive to the Fan Club and remained a patron of Crossroads Care right up to the end.”

“Sad to see Tony Adams has passed away. I remember watching him as Adam Chance in the new version of Crossroads back in 2001,” a third echoed.