Mick Johnson was one of Brookside’s most beloved characters.

The shop-keeper and taxi driver was played by Louis Emerick from 1989 – 2001 in the popular Liverpool-set soap. Mick was a key part of famous storylines such as when he was stalked by Jenny Swift and a euthanasia storyline with his mother-in-law, Gladys.

The actor hails from Toxteth and he told the ECHO that he was “fortunate to have great storylines” on the iconic programme. He said in 2008: “I think we were never saying ‘this is how Liverpool is’, but you knew someone like each of the characters in the Close.

READ MORE:On set of 1980s Brookside – 19 throwback photos of the Scouse soap’s cast and crew

“It picked up bits of life and Phil [Redmond] got that bang on. People still say some lovely things about Brookside. Rather than it being a hindrance, it has been a help. I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

Louis is now aged 61 and the actor has continued to forge a successful career in television since Brookside ended. He made an appearance in Last of the Summer Wine in the late 80s – and returned to the show as PC Walsh from 2004 – 2010.

Louis had also appeared in Coronation Street in a cameo role in 1986. However, he returned to Weatherfield for a major story arc as Liz McDonald’s boyfriend in 2018. An ITV source said at the time: “Louis is very excited about playing the role. He will be on set from next week and can’t wait to get started.”

Louis has also appeared in shows such as Waterloo Road, The Bill and Doctors since he finished his stint on Brookside. Most recently, he portrayed Marcus in an episode of Stephen Merchant’s BBC comedy, The Outlaws.

However, Louis has also broadened his horizons away from the small screen and appeared on stage in The Full Monty and also played a part in the 2004 Matthew Vaughn film, Layer Cake. He is set to soon return to the big screen for an appearance in Kung Fury 2.

The martial arts action comedy stars Arnold Schwarzenegger and Michael Fassbender, but Louis’ role is not yet known. The film is anticipated to be released at some point this year – and Louis has posted a snap of him alongside the Terminator star on the header of his Twitter profile.

Away from the screen, Louis shares regular posts from his life on social media. He shared a picture of himself with is son last week in the terraces at the Etihad stadium for Liverpool FC’s top of the table encounter against Manchester City.

However, he also took to the social media platform last June to share a heart-breaking update to share the sad news that his brother had died.

He said: “Good morning all happy @Ballstocancer #TBT the only #Tbt pic I could post today. Here with my two elder brothers, Jimmy and David, from 2015. Sadly, Jimmy (on the right) got his heavenly wings yesterday. So, a bitter, but more sweet today, that I have. So many great memories, Goodnight Rkid.”

Louis’ followers took to the comments to post messages of support after he shared the sad news. Comedian Neil Fitzmaurice said: “Sorry to hear that Lou. RIP Jimmy. Love to the family xx”

Darren added :”sorry for your loss.” Julie tweeted : “My condolences to you all, very sorry to read this, God bless” and Lisa commented: “Sorry for your loss xxx”

Receive newsletters with the latest news, sport and what’s on updates from the Liverpool ECHO by signing up here