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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Zoe Delaney

The Bill star Victor Gallucci dies months before reunion with co-stars

Victor Gallucci has passed away at the age of 81.

The actor, best known for his role as DC Tom Baker in The Bill, is believed to have died over the weekend, just months before he was due to reunite with some of his old co-stars at a special event.

It's not yet known how the star, also known for his work in Carry On films, passed away on May 14.

Victor is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the longest serving extra in a TV show for his stint as DC Tom Baker on The Bill, thanks to starring in more than 900 episodes of the defunct ITV cop series.

"Sad news has reached us that Victor Gallucci has died," an fan page dedicated to The Bill began when paying tribute on Twitter yesterday.

Fans of The Bill have been tribute to the late actor on social media (ITV)

"Whatever era of #thebill you have watched, you will have seen DC Tom Baker working alongside CID, he rarely spoke on screen but his performances were legendary. Our thoughts go to Victor's family, friends and colleagues. RIP."

Another added: "Very sad to hear last night from @GrahamcoleAct of the passing of our friend & The Bill stalwart Victor Gallucci…Vic was a legend in our industry being in 100s of films & TV @TheBillaton The Bill Reunion 9 will be dedicated to Vic @CinemaMuseum."

It's reported Victor had been planning to reunite with his former castmates and attend a special celebration dedicated to The Bill in November. The upcoming event will now be held in the late actor's honour and dedicated to his memory.

In addition to his work on The Bill, Victor also appeared on the small screen in ITV's Minder, and made a cameo in Carry On Henry.

Victor's brother announced the actor's death on Facebook earlier today, writing: "On behalf of my brother Olindo Gallucci and myself, we are sad to announce the passing of our brother Victor Gallucci on sunday 14th may. Thank you for all your condolences, Funeral details to follow."

The Bill actor's local council have plans to honour the late star (ITV)

"So sad and shocked to hear the news of Victor Gallucci's passing. May the classic car show always live on in your name," one fan wrote on Facebook as the news broke.

The late actor had a passion for classic cars, with Ryde Town Council planning to pay tribute to Victor by going ahead with one of his upcoming motor events.

A statement on the council's official Facebook page reads: "Ryde Town Council is shocked and overcome with sadness at passing of Victor Gallucci. Vic was not only a kind-hearted individual but also had the sharpest sense of humour, leaving a lasting impression on everyone he met. His infectious smile could brighten even the gloomiest of days.

"In honour of Vic's memory and his passion for classic cars, we will be working tirelessly alongside Isle of Wight Classic Car Extravaganza to ensure the classic car show continues as planned. This event will be a tribute to Vic and the immense joy he brought.

"We extend our deepest sympathy and condolences to Victor Gullucci's family and friends during this difficult time."

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