Blake’s 7 star Paul Darrow has died at the age of 78 following a short illness, a spokeswoman has said.
The actorwas best known for playing Avon in the ’70s and ’80s BBC sci-fi series, but also appeared in more than 200 other shows including Doctor Who, The Saint, Z Cars, Emmerdale, Hollyoaks and Little Britain.
Maureen Marrs, his long-time companion and PA, said: “Over three decades I have been Paul’s confidante and have had the immense privilege of being part of his life.
“A star has gone out today; the world will be a darker place without him.”
Paul also appeared on the stage, treading the boards for four seasons at the Bristol Old Vic and London’s West End, and was the voice of JACKfm and Union JACK radio.
Ian Walker, CEO of the JACK brand, said: “Paul Darrow has been JACK’s shining star.
“Over the past 12 years I have had the pleasure of spending countless hours with Paul listening to his life stories and have shared many bottles of his favourite Bordeaux, whilst enjoying his quirky jokes and sense of humour.
“When we first launched JACK in the UK, we cast over 85 voices for the role and we could not have asked for anyone more unique. Paul’s rich tones and flippant delivery style always brought a smile to everyone who knew him and of course heard him on JACKfm and Union JACK radio.
“I could not have asked for a better friend.”
Born in Surrey in 1941, Paul went to Haberdashers’ Aske’s Boys’ School before studying at RADA, where he shared a flat with fellow actors Ian McShane and John Hurt.
He married actress Janet Lees-Price after they co-starred on ITV show Emergency Ward 10 and they were together for 48 years before her death in 2012.