John Challis — best known as playing Boycie on the BBC comedy series Only Fools and Horses — has died aged 79.
Challis died "peacefully in his sleep after a long battle with cancer", a statement on his Twitter account said.
"John will always be remembered for being Boycie and he leaves a great legacy of work which will continue to bring pleasure and smiles for many years to come."
Terrance Aubrey "Boycie" Boyce, a pretentious used car salesman, was a staple supporting character of the popular show and appeared throughout its seven seasons.
Challis reprised the character for the spin-off, The Green Green Grass, which aired between 2005 and 2009.
Between 2015 and 2018 he played Monty Staines on the popular British comedy series Benidorm.
Sir David Jason, who played Del Boy, one of the lead characters on Only Fools and Horses, paid tribute to his former co-star in a statement.
"Such sad news. John was such a lovely man, a fine actor and a friend for over 40 years. Hard to think of the world without him. Condolences to his family at this incredibly sad time," he said.
Sue Holderness, who played Boycie's wife, Marlene, tweeted: "Marlene without Boycie — it's unthinkable. John Challis was my partner on screen and stage for 36 years and my beloved friend. R.I.P. darling John. I will miss you every day."
