Veteran actor Edward Woodward, who was known for his roles in The Wicker Man and The Equalizer, died today.
The 79-year-old had been suffering from various illnesses, including pneumonia, and died in hospital, his agent said.
Janet Glass released a statement praising his 'brave spirit and wonderful humour'.
It said: 'Universally loved and admired through his unforgettable roles in classic productions such as Breaker Morant, The Wicker Man, Callan, The Equalizer and many more, he was equally fine and courageous in real life, never losing his brave spirit and wonderful humour throughout his illness.
'He was further sustained by the love of his wife, Michele, children, Tim, Peter, Sarah and Emily, his grandchildren and numerous friends. His passing will leave a huge gap in many lives.'
The English actor, who recently starred in EastEnders, was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2003 and underwent triple bypass surgery in 1996.
In March this year he made his Albert Square debut as Tommy Clifford over a drink in the Queen Vic.
Woodward, who found fame in the 1980s TV series The Equalizer as Robert McCall, claimed to be writing a book.
Originally a Shakespearean actor, Woodward became famous in the Cold War espionage thriller series, Callan, in the Seventies and has starred in a number of films, including The Wicker Man (1973) and Hot Fuzz (2007).
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