Telebtubbies actor Simon Shelton Barnes has passed away just days after marking his 52nd birthday.
The television star was best known for playing the purple Teletubbie Tinky Winky, who was famous for carrying around a handbag.#
He took over the role from actor Dave Thompson in 1998.
His death was made public after loved ones including his niece, Inbetweeners star Emily Atack, paid tribute on social media.
Emily, 28, posted a black and white photo of her beloved uncle to Instagram alongside a touching message.
It read: “My wonderful uncle Simon Barnes has been taken from us all so suddenly. The kindest and most talented man you could ever wish to meet. Loved by all who knew him, and will be forever X.”
https://www.instagram.com/p/BeIZV9xHx8t/?taken-by=emilyatackofficial
Simon, who was a ballet dancer and choreographer, was a father of three from Bedfordshire.
According to The Independent, Simon’s son Henry posted a tribute to Facebook which read: “I lost my lovely dad on Wednesday, he was the kindest and most gentle man I knew and I love him more than anything!
“I always used to be embarrassed as a child that he was a dancer and an actor but now I couldn’t be more proud! He is in a better place now and I know he wouldn’t want me to be sad, so I’m going to live my life the way he would want me to.”
His funeral will take place on February 7.