Gladiators star Falcon has died (Picture: REX/Shutterstock)

Gladiators icon Falcon has died at the age of 59.

The sad death of the TV star – real name Bernadette Hunt – came after a cancer battle.

Hunt’s death was announced by Rick Jango in a Facebook group.

Sharing a tribute for the Gladiators favourite, the post read: ‘It is with great sadness that I have to tell you of my partner’s younger sister Bernadette Hunt.

‘Most people will remember her as Falcon From the hit TV Show Gladiators.

‘I had the privilege to be in her company a few times & I have to say she was one of the most loveliest people I have ever met

‘She never had a bad word to say about anyone, indeed she was always known as the nicest Gladiator always stopping to speak & sign autographs for anyone.’

The announcement concluded: ‘She had been battling cancer for a number of years until sadly she lost the fight R.I.P. Bernie’.

It was confirmed in a comment that the star’s funeral would be private and with only family in attendance.

Hunt joined the hit ITV show for its second series in 1993 and remained a core part of the hit programme until series ended.

She was considered one of the most gracious Gladiators amongst viewers, as she often congratulated contenders, whether they won or lost.

It took a strong Gladiator to compete against her, as she took on the Joust, Powerball and Tilt throughout her time on the show.

This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.

If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

For more stories like this, check our entertainment page.

Follow Metro.co.uk Entertainment on Twitter and Facebook for the latest celeb and entertainment updates. You can now also get Metro.co.uk articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here.

Bernadette Hunt joined the hit ITV show for its second series in 1993.