Comedy actor Richard O’Sullivan has died at the age of 82.
O’Sullivan, best known for his roles in the classic 1970s sitcoms Man About The House and Robin’s Nest, died peacefully at Brinsworth House in Twickenham, the Royal Variety Charity’s care home where he had lived for 23 years.
The Royal Variety Charity said he died "peacefully surrounded by his close family" on Friday.
His son, James O’Sullivan, described him as a "wonderful dad" and spoke of the joy his father brought to others.
Mr O'Sullivan said: "My dad was as funny and charming in real life as he appeared on our TV screens over the years.
"Always kind spirited, good humoured, a doting grandfather and a wonderful dad – I will miss him dearly.
"I would like to thank the incredible team at Brinsworth for their love, kindness and care over the last 23 years.
"They have been truly amazing and will always hold a special place in my heart."
O’Sullivan’s career began at the age of eight with a role in the 1953 film The Yellow Balloon.
He went on to appear in productions including Sir Peter Hall’s Love’s Labour’s Lost at the Royal Shakespeare Theatre in 1956.
He also featured in two films alongside Sir Cliff Richard: The Young Ones in 1961 and Wonderful Life in 1964.
In 1963, he played Pharaoh Ptolemy XIII in Cleopatra, starring opposite Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton.
He became a household name in the 1970s with Man About The House, playing Robin Tripp in a sitcom about a man sharing a London flat with two women.
The show ran for six series and led to the spin-off Robin’s Nest, which followed Robin as he set up a business with his girlfriend and her father.
Giles Cooper, life-president of the Royal Variety, said: "Richard O’Sullivan was a master of effortless charm and impeccable comic timing, bringing pure warmth, wit, and unforgettable joy to millions of living rooms as a true giant of British television.
"He will be sorely missed by us all at the Royal Variety Charity."
O’Sullivan was among the former stars from television, theatre and film who met the Duchess of Sussex during her festive visit to the Royal Variety Charity’s residential nursing home in December 2018.
He is survived by his son James, daughter-in-law Kate, grandchildren Nancy and Freddie, and his brother John.
The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
The Royal Variety Charity said the family "also wish to thank all the fans of Richard, whose support meant so much to him during his long and happy life."
What was your favourite role of Richard O’Sullivan? Let us know in the comments.
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