Torchwood star Murray Melvin has sadly died aged 90, it has been confirmed.
The veteran actor was famed for starring in Doctor Who spin-off Torchwood as well as The Phantom of the Opera (2004).
Doctor Who boss Russell T Davies led tributes to the star on Saturday (April 15), where he praised his impressive career.
READ MORE:Paul O’Grady’s cause of death confirmed after star died ‘unexpectedly but peacefully’
He wrote: “Murray Melvin (1932-2023), bless him, he played the wonderful villain in Torchwood, Bilis Manger, and he loved it! But what a career!
(Image: BBC)
“He created the great, gay Geoffrey in A Taste of Honey, on stage and on film. Tons of work with Joan Littlewood and Ken Russell. Amazing. Such a gent.
“He lived through a century that saw the understanding of his identity change so profoundly, and he did so with dignity, class and wit.”
He also shared his final communication with Murray, adding: “His last email to me ended, “Take care, we still cannot afford to take chances.” Oh he was wise’, he penned sweetly, signing off: ‘Night, Murray [heart emoji].”
(Image: Warner Bros.)
Tributes poured in for the late TV star from famous names in showbiz and adoring fans.
TV presenter Gaby Roslin wrote: “What a great actor he was [heartbreak emoji].”
One wrote: “R.I.P a legend to British acting and culture.”
Another shared a sweet memory with Murray as they said: “I had the pleasure of being a co worker of his when I did my work placement at theatre Royal Stratford East, he was a wonderful soul.”
(Image: Moviestore/REX/Shutterstock)
During his career, Melvin worked with the likes of legendary screen directors Stanley Kubrick, Ken Russell and theatre director Joan Littlewood.
Melvin first appeared in Torchwood back in 2007 as scary villain Bilis Manger and continued in the role until 2017.
His other notable roles include A Taste of Honey (1961), Barry Lyndon (1975).
He was also the author of two books, The Art of Theatre Workshop (2006) and The Theatre Royal, A History of the Building (2009).
For more of the latest showbiz and TV news from the Daily Star, make sure you sign up to one of our newsletters here
READ NEXT:
Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
