Colin Bennett, the star of iconic children's TV shows Take Hart and Hartbeat has died.
His son Tom, who's also no stranger to the world of TV, broke the news on social media late on Friday.
Sharing a snap of his father, Bennett's son penned: "My Dad (Mr Bennett) sadly passed away 2 weeks ago today. I still don’t quite have the words.
"He was my hero. I will miss him more than he will ever know. I love you Dad. Xxx."
Following the outpouring of support, the actor soon followed his announcement up with a post that read: "He wouldn’t have believed the amount of love he’s getting right now!
"The number of amazing replies is testament to who he was as a man & make me so very proud he was my dad! He’d be so honoured, humbled and pleased he played even a tiny part in many of your childhoods! Thankyou."
Mr Bennett (left) in Hartbeat back in the 1980s
BBC
And as the condolences kept on coming, he added: "F***ing hell I had no idea the outpouring of love would be so huge!
"I’m truly overwhelmed in the most joyously emotional way possible by all your kind, heartfelt words.
"He was a special man & I’m so proud & it’s bringing me so much joy he meant so much to so many of you."
Among the replies was one fan who paid tribute: "Bless you man. We ALL loved your Dad. Big part of so many of our childhoods. Love to you and your family!"
My Dad (Mr Bennett) sadly passed away 2 weeks ago today. I still don’t quite have the words. He was my hero. I will miss him more than he will ever know. I love you Dad. Xxx pic.twitter.com/iH7c7wfl6P
— Tom “Friendly, Intimate Contact” Bennett (@newmanstings) March 8, 2024
"Very sorry for your loss, Tom. He was such a happy and familiar part of so many people's childhoods," a second said.
While a third echoed: "When I was little, me and my brother would play Tony Hart and Mr Bennett.
"I would make a lovely tower of bricks and my brother would knock them over resulting in me exclaiming: 'Oh Mr Bennett.' Fondly remembered to this day."
And another remarked: "I’m so sorry for your loss Tom. Amazing how he was a part of so many people’s lives. Thank you for sharing him x." (sic)
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Tom Bennett (right) has announced the death of his father Colin
NIGEL RAMDIAL/GETTY
Bennett was best known for playing Mr Bennett and The Caretaker in the BBC's Take Hart and its spin-off Hartbeat, respectively.
His CV also boasts credits in police drama The Bill, BBC soap EastEnders and Casualty.