Cape Town – The actor who played Tinky Winky in the children’s television show has died at the age of 52.
Simon Shelton Barnes, a trained ballet dancer and choreographer played the role of the purple Teletubbies between 1997 and 2001.
Very sad news ??
— CBeebies Grown-Ups (@CBeebiesHQ) January 23, 2018
We are holding our handbags high in respect! ?? https://t.co/ErA3MbGeAM
His niece, actress Emily Atack shared the news on social media.
Alongside a picture of her uncle she wrote: “My wonderful uncle Simon Barnes has been taken from us all so suddenly. The kindest and most talented man you could ever wish to meet. Loved by all who knew him, and will be forever. X”
According to the Independent UK he was reluctant to take on the role but in the end the risk paid off as he received fan mail from both kids and parents.
His funeral will be held on 7 February.