The Bill actor George Rossi has sadly died at the age of 61.
The star played DC Duncan Lennon on the hit police show from 1998 until 2003 – and was known as a fan favourite character on the cop series.
George passed away in the morning on Wednesday (January 5) – his family have confirmed in a statement on social media.
Rossi’s niece, Louisa Rossi, took to Twitter on Wednesday to announce the news of George’s tragic passing.
She said: “Unfortunately George Rossi who played DC Duncan Lennox passed away the morning of Wednesday 5th January 2022.”
She added: “This is my uncle. He was acting still up until recently. Unfortunately he passed away yesterday morning.”
The cause of George’s death is not yet known.
Tributes have poured in for the popular Glasgow actor – from George’s fans and his friends in the television industry.
Casting director Claire Toeman revealed that she was “devastated” by the loss of her ‘dear friend’.
She wrote: “Rest in peace George Rossi you were the dearest of friends you will be sorely missed.”
Claire said that he became a “firm fan favourite with fans”, adding: “he will always be remembered for portraying one of the most popular faces on The Bill in the late nineties”.
One fan penned: “Oh no, this is incredibly sad news. Duncan Lennox was a favourite of many fans of #thebill, such a talented actor.”
Another shared a sweet meeting that they had with the actor.
They commented: “I randomly bumped into George Rossi in London a few years back, what an absolute legend! Just spent 10 mins chatting about Sun Hill!”
A third commented: “So sorry for your loss, prayers and thoughts with your family and George’s loved ones.”
George made his acting debut in the 1984 film Comfort & Joy – starring alongside his brother in the movie.
Before that, he worked in his family’s ice cream business before pursuing a career in showbiz – later enrolling at the East 15 Acting School.
He also appeared in Holby City, The Singing Detective, Taggart and Whitechapel.
His final acting role was in 2020’s Le Cineaste – A Director’s Journey.
George is survived by his wife Catrin and their two children.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk