Joe E. Tata, star of 90210, has died age 85 after a battle with Alzheimer's.
The actor is most well known for his role as Peach Pit diner owner Nat Bussichio from the US teen drama, who he played from 1990 until 2000.
Co-star Ian Ziering announced the news on Instagram earlier today, writing: "In the last few months we’ve lost Jessica Klein one of 90210’s most prolific writers and producers, Denise Douse who played Mrs. Teasley, and now I’m very sad to say Joe E Tata has passed away.
"Joey was truly an OG, I remember seeing him on the Rockford files with James Garner years before we worked together on 90210. He was often one of the background villains in the original Batman series," he said.
Ian went on: "One of the happiest people I’ve ever worked with, he was as generous with his wisdom as he was with his kindness. Though the peach pit was a 90210 set, It often felt like the backdrop to the Joe E Tata show.
"The stories of days gone by that he would share, incredible experiences in the entertainment industry that he was a part of would keep us all captivated. He may have been in the back of many scenes, but he was a leading force, especially to us guys, on how to appreciate the gift that 90210 was."
Ian concluded his touching tribute by offering his condolences to Joe's family and friends.
Before his break in 90210, Joe played Private Neddick in the 1964 comedy No Time for Sergeants.
The actor was officially diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2018, with his daughter Kelly launching a campaign, asking fans for donations to his medical bills.
On the gofundme page she wrote: "My father, Joe E. Tata, is known to the rest of the world for his role as “Nat Busschio” on the popular 90’s teen drama “Beverly Hills, 90210."
"Remarkably, his role as the proprietor of the Peach Pit, lasted all 10 seasons of the original series. Nat was a loving father figure to the kids of West Beverly High."
Kelly went on: "In real life, my Dad, Joey, is honest, kind, and a truly incredible father."
She described how in 2014 she moved in with him and became his carer, after his health deteriorated. In 2018, he diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, she said.
Fans took to Twitter to share their sadness at the news, with one writing: "For those of us of a certain age he will always be known as Nat who was always there to dispense some wise advice. RIP Joe E. Tata."
Another said: "R.I.P. Joe E. Tata, “Nat” from Beverly Hills 90210. So sad…"
