‘Porridge’s Peter Vaughan has died at the age of 93.
The veteran actor – who was known for playing Harry ‘Grouty’ Grout in the 1970’s sitcom – passed away surrounded by his family on Tuesday (06.12.16) morning.
His agent Sally Long-Innes said in a statement: "This is to confirm that very sadly Peter Vaughan passed away at approximately 10.30 this morning. He died peacefully with his family around him."
Peter’s death will no doubt come as a shocking blow to his legion of fans as he racked up a huge following throughout his 75-year acting career.
He kick-started his career in 1959 after landing a minor role in ‘The 39 Steps’ before going to make a name for himself in the 1970’s TV series ‘Citizen Smith’, followed by ‘Our Friends In The North’ in which he played Felix Hutchinson, and ‘Les Misérables’.
Peter remained on screens until last year when he portrayed Maester Aemon Targaryen in the popular fantasy drama series ‘Game of Thrones’ from 2011.
His famous role in ‘Porridge’ made a big impact in the sitcom world – even though he only appeared in three episodes and the spin-off movie.
He previously revealed that he was still recognised for playing his well-known character 40 years on from his appearances on the show.
He said: "I still get people saying "Let you out, have they, Grouty?
"I was in just three episodes and, of course, the feature film, so I have to thank the writers Dick Clement and Ian La Frenais for the fact I’m one of the characters people always remember when they talk about Porridge because Grouty is so prominent, even though I’m not there."
Once news of his tragic passing began to spread like wildfire, fans flocked to their social networking sites to share their sadness and pass on their condolences.
One fan, who goes by the handle Mitch, said: "RIP Peter Vaughan, what an actor. Maester Aemon won’t be forgotten (sic)"
Another called Chris said: "RIP to the legendary Peter Vaughan. A wonderful, classy actor. To me, he will forever be Grouty, but such a rich and varied body of work x"
Peter Vaughan is dead
