Christopher Beeny has died aged 78.
The ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ actor – who played Morton Beamish in the beloved BBC sitcom – passed away "in his armchair" at his home in Kent on Friday (03.01.20), according to his son Rick Blackman.
Revealing the sad news on Twitter this week, Rick wrote: "I have some sad news to impart. On Friday 3rd of January my old dad Christopher Beeny died at his home in Kent.
"He was 78. Comforted to know he was not alone at the end and was in his armchair."
Christopher rose to fame as footman Edward in 1970s ITV drama ‘Upstairs, Downstairs’ after breaking through in BBC series ‘The Grove Family’ in the 1950s.
The beloved star also appeared in the likes of ‘Emmerdale’ and the BBC’s adaptation of ‘Sense & Sensibility’, while his other sitcom roles included ‘The Rag Trade’, ‘Miss Jones and son’ and ‘In Loving Memory’.
Tributes have poured out on social media, with everyone paying their respects to the late actor following the sad announcement.
‘Emmerdale’ scriptwriter Kathleen Beedles tweeted: ‘I’m so sorry for your loss. Your Dad brought us great joy, especially in ‘Upstairs Downstairs’ which will always be a favourite.
"Was an absolute honour to cast him in Emmerdale – something @M1ckeyJoe and I are proud of. My thoughts are with you and your family. Xx (sic)"
A fan responded to Rick’s post, writing: "So sorry your dad was part of my youth, my growing up and adult life.
"A fine actor who never got the recognition he truly deserved. God bless him, to rest in peace eternal, condolences to you. (sic)"
Another fan paid tribute to Christopher’s comedic skils and described his talent as "a gift".
They tweeted: "So sorry. He made many people laugh. A gift. RIP Mr Beeny."
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