The Call Centre star Nev Wilshire has died, sources close to him have confirmed.
The star rose to fame on the BBC reality show, which followed him as a businessman and entrepreneur.
Circumstances surrounding his death are not yet known, though tributes from his former co-stars have already been pouring in.
Friend and former colleague Hayley Pearce – who starred alongside Nev on the BBC show – posted a poignant tribute on social media.
She wrote: “He was more than a boss to me. He was like family. The memories we made together are ones I will cherish and talk about for the rest of my life.
(Image: Western Mail)
Former tea lady Hayley, who went on to have a successful career in media, added: “I can’t thank him enough for believing in me. He changed my life. RIP. Truly gutted.”
Another co-star, Lisa Jayne said she would never forget the support Nev gave her, writing: “When I was looking at pics to post (of him), every one I had was at a charity event.”
Close friend John Tancock also penned: “Nev passed away this morning. Nev was an enormous character, he made an impact wherever he went.
(Image: BBC)
“He was a Christian, he was a good man, he helped many people. Like all of us he had his sins and flaws but God has accepted him. Rest in peace my friend.”
The Call Centre first aired back in 2013 and followed Nev and his team of 700 employees as they tackled life within the business.
Nev captured the hearts of the nation with his early morning singalongs – with his trademark track being The Killers’ Mr Brightside.
He even held arm wrestling competitions with his employees.
(Image: BBC)
And it wasn’t the only programme Nev made his name in, as he went on to set up another call centre in India as part of a six-part TV series.
The show, Nev’s Indian Call Centre, aired in 2016.
Neville later appeared on shows including Tourist Trap, The One Show and Up Late With Rylan.
Away from his entrepreneurial skills, Nev was also once a top football striker in the Welsh league, and played for clubs including Pontardawe, Port Talbot and Carmarthen.
The star was originally born in Gower back in 1960, and began his working life as an employee of a builder’s merchant before he moved into sales.
By the time he was 24, Nev had set up his own company – which turned over £4.8m at its peak before going bust in 1996.
Nev then became CEO of Save Britain Money in 2010.
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk
