Actor Terrence Hardiman has passed away at the age of 86, his agent has confirmed. Famed for portraying the title character in The Demon Headmaster on CBBC, the TV star has also appeared in Richard Attenborough's biopic Gandhi, as well as episodes of Prime Suspect, Doctor Who and Holby City.
Royal fans may also recognise Terrence from his role as Doctor Evans in season two of The Crown. He is survived by his wife of 59 years, actress Rowena Cooper, and their children.
The actor's death was confirmed by his agents – Scott Marshall & Partners – in a statement announced with "great sadness." It described Terrence as a "beloved client and much-loved stage and screen actor".
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Following the announcement, fans have taken to Twitter in tribute. "RIP #TerrenceHardiman, what an amazing gent he was. Met him once and he was a very kind soul," wrote one.
"He terrified me when I was a child in The Demon Headmaster! Sad to hear that Terrence Hardiman has passed away at the age of 86," added another.
Meanwhile, a third penned: "Terribly sad news of Terrence Hardiman passing away. He was supremely terrifying in The Demon Headmaster, but I had the pleasure of meeting him once at one of my school's fetes, It took a bit of convincing to go up to him, but he was absolutely wonderful and kind. RIP."
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