ONLY Fools and Horses star Michael Jayston has died aged 88 after a "short illness".
The actor's agent announced the news on behalf of his family on Monday.
He played the Valeyard, the Doctor's dark side, in all fourteen episodes of Doctor Who from 1986.
He also made appearances in EastEnders, Coronation Street and Emmerdale.
M&M Famous Faces said Michael had suffered a "short illness".
A spokesman added: "It is with great sadness, that I have been asked by his family to share the news, Michael Jayston sadly passed away this morning after a short illness.
"Those who knew Michael will know he was full of love, laughs and happiness. He adored meeting his fans all over the world.
"His family and friends would appreciate privacy at this time.”
'WARM, WITTY & CLEVER'
Tributes have poured in for the actor as devastated friends and fans told how they "adored him".
Actor Colin Baker said: "My dear dear friend, Michael Jayston has left us today. I am absolutely devastated. He was warm witty, clever naughty and a very fine actor & wonderful man.
"My thoughts and love go to his wife Ann and daughter Katie. Heartbroken Goodbye my friend."
Bafta-nominated documentary maker Chris Chapman said Michael was "incredible company".
He added: "Absolutely gutted to hear of the passing of Michael Jayston. He was incredible company on one of my favourite Who shoots, The Doctor's Table, and his turn as the Valeyard remains (forever) diabolically wonderful."
One fan said: "A truly terrific actor, with one of most amazing & distinctive voices, has died aged 88. I adored him."
Another added: "A dependably superb character actor in tv and film. I first saw him as an excellent Peter Guillam, trusted right hand man of Alec Guinness’ George Smiley in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. One of the last of a dying breed."
Michael played James, the father of Derek Edward 'Del Boy' Trotter's long-term partner Raquel Turner, in an episode of Only Fools and Horses.
In the 1996 episode Del Boy and Rodney Trotter get their big break at an auction.
Michael was also known for his starring role in in the historical film Nicholas And Alexandra.
It told the story of the last days of the Tsars in Russia and the relationship between Nicholas II of Russia and his wife.
The actor, born in West Bridgeford in Nottingham, trained in acting at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama.
He started his career in 1962 performing at the Bristol Old Vic.
He played the part of Captain Von Trapp in the 1981 production of The Sound of Music at the Apollo Victoria.
Jayston also starred as Edward Rochester in a 1970s TV adaptation of Charlotte Bronte's novel Jane Eyre, and appeared in Doctor Who.
He played The Confessor in Roger Crane play The Last Confession opposite David Suchet as Cardinal Benelli at Chichester Festival Theatre in May 2007.
