Only Fools And Horses actor John Challis has died at the age of 79.
The star, who was best known for playing Terrance 'Boycie' Boyce in the sitcom, had been battling cancer in for two years.
Just last week, John's co-star Sue Holderness revealed he was "feeling low" as she appeared on Loose Women.
She revealed that John wasn't feeling great at the time, but reassured fans as she added: "Let's all have positive thinking."
Sue said: "But don't be too upset, we had lunch in the pub three weeks ago. And two weeks ago, exactly I spent all day with him filming a little documentary about Only Fools."
"He's low at the moment," she added.
"But enough positive thinking and he’ll get home, have some rest and he’ll get back and having us all laugh again very soon."
Sue remained great friends with John since the end of the iconic sitcom and she admitted he was feeling "very disappointed" that he had to cancel his one-man tour in recent weeks, due to "ill health".
Today, his family shared the sad news of his death.
John's family said in a statement: "It is with heavy hearts that we bring you such sad news.
"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."
Their statement added: "As Boycie would have said… you know it makes sense!"
He had been diagnosed with cancer in 2019.
After the sad news of his death broke, tributes began pouring in.
The Three Degrees singer Sheila Ferguson tweeted: "I've been waiting for this for a few days now.
"It is with great sadness that I tell you that my dear friend, John Challis (Boycie from OFAH) has just passed.
"I’ve been in touch with his wife, Carol, who is obviously heartbroken, as am I. Much love, S."
Strictly Come Dancing's Richard Coles tweeted: "Oh no, @BeingBoycie has died! I only knew him on Twitter but he was lovely #RIPBoycie"
TV channel Gold posted: "We are saddened that the wonderful John Challis who played Boycie so brilliantly in Only Fools and Horses and The Green Green Grass has passed away at 79. We adored working with John and will always treasure his on-screen brilliance. Our thoughts are with his family and friends."
John will be remembered for his roles in Only Fools spin-off The Green Green Grass and Benidorm.
He began his TV career in 1967, starring in the likes of The Newcomers and Z-Cars.
Over the years, he also appeared in Coronation Street, The Sweeney, Doctor Who, Open All Hours and countless other shows.
