Upstairs Downstairs star Christopher Beeny has died at the age of 78, his devastated son has confirmed.
Rick Blackman broke the sad news in a Twitter tribute to his dad, writing: "I have some sad news to impart. On friday 3rd of January my old dad Christopher Beeny died at his home in Kent.
"He was 78. Comforted to know he was not alone at the end and was in his armchair."
Christopher had played the footman Edward Barnes in Upstairs Downstairs and had also starred in Last Of The Summer Wine and In Loving Memory.
One fan wrote: "So sorry your Dad was part of my youth, my growing up and adult life. A fine acto who never got the recognition he truly deserved. God bless him, to rest in peace eternal, condolences to you."
And another said: "So sorry. He made many people laugh. A gift. RIP Mr Beeny."
The London-born actor had his first taste of the spotlight aged six when he danced for the Ballet Rambert, and went on to land his first role in 1953 with The Long Memory.
He was also one of the first British soap stars, nabbing the part of Lenny Grove in the 1950s BBC series The Grove Family.
You can leave your tributes to Christopher in the comments below.
