The Bill's George Rossi has died at the age of 61, his heartbroken family has confirmed.
The actor was best known for his role as DC Duncan Lennox in the ITV police drama.
It was announced today that he died on January 5.
His niece Louisa Rossi shared the sad news, saying: "Unfortunately George Rossi who played DC Duncan Lennox passed away the morning of Wednesday 5th January 2022."
She said her uncle had been acting until recently.
George, who was born in Glasgow, is survived by his wife Catrin and two children.
After the tragic news emerged, his close friend and casting director Claire Toeman said in tribute: "Rest in peace George Rossi you were the dearest of friends you will be sorely missed."
She said that George's role in The Bill saw him become a "firm favourite" among fans, adding that "he will always be remembered for portraying one of the most popular faces on The Bill in the late nineties".
Ben Peyton, who played PC Ben Hayward in the show, tweeted: "Sad to hear that a pal from #TheBill has died. George Rossi was such a gent, very funny and a brilliant actor. I remember when I’d just started and we had to talk together in the background of a scene before I walked out of shot and he carried the scene on."
Actress Tracie Bennett posted: "R.I.P. George Rossi. Can’t believe it. We used to laugh til we cried. Also a very gentle and a wonderful man. Gone too young. Condolences to family. Go well my lovely."
A Bill fan account tweeted: "Today we share the sad news that George Rossi who played DC Duncan Lennox has died. Duncan Lennox was a character whom fans adored, portrayed by such a talented actor. We are keeping George's family, friends and colleagues in our thoughts."
The Bill's Billy Murray shared a picture of them together in the show, writing: "In The Bill with #GeorgeRossi who has sadly left us. Thanks for all your nice comments - he was a lovely man."
Actress Joy Brook also remembered George, writing: "Devastated to hear of the death of George Rossi. George was the loveliest of men, and a wonderfully talented actor. I loved working with him, and will miss the twinkle and giggles he brought to every scene. Heartfelt condolences to his family."
George also had a reputation for being a lovely man whenever he bumped into his fans.
One shared on Twitter: "I randomly bumped into George Rossi in London a few years back, what an absolute legend! Just spent 10 mins chatting about Sun Hill!"
Another fan posted: "Oh no, this is incredibly sad news. Duncan Lennox was a favourite of many fans of #thebill, such a talented actor."
And another told his niece Louisa: "So sorry for your loss, prayers and thoughts with your family and George’s loved ones."
George began working for his family's ice cream business before training to become an actor at East 15 Acting School.
He made his debut in 1984 movie Comfort & Joy, in which he starred alongside his brother Peter.
During his career, George also appeared in Taggart, Holby City, The Singing Detective and Whitechapel.
And after his time on The Bill, he went on to play roles in the likes of Doctors and Casualty.
His final credited role on IMDb was in 2020's Le Cineaste - A Director's Journey.
He worked alongside some of Hollywood's biggest names too, including Scream's David Arquette, X-Men's Famke Janssen and Speed star Sandra Bullock.
