Teletubbies star Simon Barnes, who played Tinky Winky, has died

Simon Shelton Barnes, who is best known for his role as Tinky Winky in the Teletubbies has died.

The actor passed away at the age of 52. He was married with three children. His niece, Emily Atack, who is also an actress, confirmed the news a few days ago. She said, "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." He was trained as a choreographer and dancer before joining the hit children's series in 1998. He appeared in 14 episodes until the show was cancelled in 2001. It show was rebooted in 2016, but Simon opted out from the role of Tinky Winky at this point.