The actor was best known for playing Asif Malik, Martin Fowler’s mischievous school friend, in the BBC soap between 1999 and 2003. Luximon died on 23 July, with the funeral taking place on 11 August. His family have set up a tribute website raising money for the NSPCC and suicide prevention charity Andy’s Man Club. “Ash’s unexpected passing hit us all hard, but we want to take time to remember his larger-than-life spirit. He loved and was loved by so many,” a statement on the website said. “He sang a wicked karaoke tune and had a voice loud enough to be heard from space! It brought laughter and the best hugs.” Brother Alvin Luximon paid tribute to Ashwin on his birthday on August 13, writing on Facebook: “Happy birthday bro, I’m sure you’re having a lot of fun and making everyone laugh… have a great time.” EastEnders fans and friends of the actor have also left tributes on the site, with one reading: ‘You were a leading man with a heart of pure gold. I am proud and very lucky to have been your friend.” Enfield-born Luximon appeared in 146 episodes of EastEnders as Malik, where she was linked to James Alexandrou, who played Martin Fowler at the time. The pair’s history involved getting into trouble – from vandalism to growing cannabis – before Malik passed his A-levels and left Walford to go to university. Archie Bland and Nimo Omer take you to the top stories and what they mean, free every weekday morning Privacy Notice: Newsletters may contain information about charities, online advertising and content sponsored by external parties. For more information, see our Privacy Policy. We use Google reCaptcha to protect our website and Google’s Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Luximon has also appeared in promotional videos for bus safety and British Airways. His other TV appearances include Grange Hill and Hope and Glory.
