Tony Armatrading has died.
The actor - who starred in The Saint and Notting Hill - passed away today at the age of 59, following a cancer battle.
His death was confirmed online by fellow actor Tim Bentinck.
Tim penned on Twitter : "Very sad news. My dearest friend Tony Armatrading died of cancer an hour ago."
Alongside a snap that showed Tony, wife Suzan Crowley and their pet dog Dash before his death, he continued: "I had the privilege of being his best man, and loved him dearly.
"He was a wonderful actor, and a true friend. This pic of him with Suzy and Dash taken last night."
Shortly after the sad news was shared, several of Tony's fans took to social media to pay their respects.
One penned: "Just heard that Tony Armatrading has died. So desperately sad and unfair. He was in the first play I worked on at the @BelgradeTheatre and he was the nicest, sweetest man you could wish to meet. He was also a bloody good actor. Sending healing hugs to his family and friends."
A second joined in: "Sad to hear you're going through this. Hope you'll be alright soon Tim!"
Others added : "Sorry to learn your sad news, I wish his family well and understand their pain. So sad" and "R.I.P. Tony Armatrading condolences to your family & friends."
Birmingham native Tony had an impressive career on screen which included roles in huge American shows - including NCIS and Prison Break.
He was also known for playing Xalek in a series of Star Wars video games, including Star Wars: The Old Republic - Knights of the Fallen Empire.
The actor enjoyed further success while touring the United Kingdom as Jelly Roll Morton in in Jelly Roll Soul and also won several parts with the Royal Shakespeare Company.
Tony was also the younger brother of singer-songwriter Joan Armatrading.
