John Challis, best known for playing Boycie in Only Fools and Horses, has died at the age of 79.
The news was announced in a statement from the actor's family on the much-loved comedy show's Twitter account, confirming that he died after a "long battle" with cancer.
"It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news," it read. "Our dear friend and yours, John Challis, has died peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with cancer.
"He will always be loved for being 'Boycie' and leaves a great legacy of work that will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come.
"Please respect the privacy of John's family and friends at this difficult time, and be assured that in the future there will be an occasion to celebrate John's life - when everyone will be welcome to come along."
Challis played the iconic character Boycie in Only Fools between 1981 and 2003, reprising the role for a spinoff show, The Green Green Grass, between 2005 and 2009.
More recently, he appeared in ITV sitcom Benidorm and the one-off revival of Are You Being Served?
Neil Wilkes
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