Richard Franklin has died aged 87 (Picture: Kevin Nixon/SFX Magazine via Getty Images)
Doctor Who star Richard Franklin has died, it has been confirmed.
A statement announced that the actor ‘passed away peacefully’ on Christmas morning at the age of 87.
Líam Rudden wrote on his official X account: ‘It is with great sadness, that the family of Richard Franklin have asked me to share news of his passing, early this morning.
‘Richard passed away peacefully in his sleep.
‘Details of funeral arrangements will be shared here when announced.’
‘Sleep well, Richard,’ the message signed off.
Fans flocked to pay tribute to Franklin, with Chris Gruttke writing: ‘Rip Captain. Thank you for your acting work that we will all continue to enjoy. I have fond memories of meeting you at events. True gentleman.’
‘Godspeed and RIP, Richard. Another legend goes to that great Doctor Who reunion in the sky. I love him in all of his Who performances but a special mention for The Green Death and Invasion of the Dinosaurs. Sad news on this special day’, penned user TheMestor.
‘Very sad news. Will be raising a glass to Richard tonight’, vowed Matthew Purchase.
‘Hugely sad news. Richard brought joy to countless people and will always be loved x’, wrote James Silvester.
Doctor Who fans will know Franklin for portraying Captain Mike Yates of UNIT in the series from 1971 until 1974.
He starred in Doctor Who, as well as Emmerdale (Picture: James Dimelow)
He later reprised the role on several occasions, both on television and in Doctor Who spin-off media.
Actor and director Franklin was mainly a stage actor.
He also appeared as a regular character in several high-profile British TV programmes, including Crossroads and Emmerdale, which was called Emmerdale Farm at the time.
A writer as well, Franklin authored the book Forest Wisdom: Radical Reform of Democracy and the Welfare State and has written novels based in the Whoniverse.
He stood as a candidate for the UK Parliament for several parties and founded the Silent Majority Party.
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He died in his sleep on Christmas morning.