The late performer was described as a ‘cornerstone’ for his family. (Picture: The King Family)

Ric de Azevedo, who starred on The King Family Show as a singer, has died at the age of 75 following a ‘lengthy illness’.

An announcement confirming his death was made The King Family, who wrote on Facebook that their ‘dear cousin and brother’ died on Tuesday March 14 while ‘surrounded by members of his family’.

‘Even though we knew this was coming, it’s always too soon and we can’t believe he’s gone. Our hearts are breaking,’ they wrote.

‘Many of you came to know and love Ric and appreciate his incredible talent through our family’s TV series, specials, records and concerts over the years.

‘Ric was a vibrant part of our family shows and audiences always delighted in his performances and cherished the many memorable moments he was a part of – from singing and dancing in our Top Twenty segments, through his beautiful solos and of course the magical moment he surprised his mom Alyce during our very first Christmas special.’

De Azevedo continued to delight audiences with his performances on the stage and screen throughout the years, and went on to become a great-grandfather in his lifetime.

The performer died last week surrounded by family (Picture: The King Family)

‘While all of us mourn the loss of a cornerstone of our family, we are grateful for the incredible and enduring legacy he leaves us all, and grateful for the love and appreciation that each of you in our extended community of fans and friends have shown Ric and our entire family through the years,’ his loved ones said.

More to follow.

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The late performer was described as a ‘cornerstone’ for his family.