Desmond Barrit, the much-loved television and stage actor, has died aged 81.
Best known for his appearances in Holby City and Midsomer Murders the actor died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Islington, with his death prompting an outpouring of tributes from across the industry.
His death was confirmed on Monday through a series of online tributes led by the National Theatre, where he had been a prominent figure.
Desmond played Raymond Clandillon in Season 10 of Midsomer Murders back in 2007 and starred as Aubrey in Holby City.
Desmond built a long and varied career spanning stage and screen, earning recognition for performances in Shakespearean productions, musical theatre and television drama.
He also had roles in productions at venues including the Royal National Theatre and Theatr Clwyd.
Desmond Barrit, the much-loved television and stage actor, has died aged 81
Best known for his appearances in Holby City and Midsomer Murders the actor died suddenly and unexpectedly at his home in Islington
In a statement, the National Theatre said: 'Des brought his sublime talent and massive heart to everything from Shakespeare to Sondheim, new plays to raucous pantomime. He was expertly funny.
'He was a hilarious ringmaster announcing Comedy Tonight in the National Theatre's outstanding revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum.
'He could break hearts as well, and I had the privilege of directing him as a devastating Big Daddy in Cat On a Hot Tin Roof at the Theatr Clwyd in 2016. A generous and joyous man, he will be much missed.'
Desmond, who was born in Morriston near Swansea, established himself early as a performer.
One of his first screen roles came in 1998's Alice Through the Looking Glass, in which he played Humpty Dumpty.
He went on to gain acclaim on stage, including a performance as Shylock in Chichester Festival Theatre's 2003 production of The Merchant of Venice.
His theatre work continued with a role as Hector in The History Boys at Wyndham's Theatre.
In 2004, Desmond appeared in a revival of A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum at the Royal National Theatre, a production later nominated for the 2005 Olivier Award for Outstanding Musical Production.
His death was confirmed on Monday through a series of online tributes led by the National Theatre, where he had been a prominent figure
Actor Joseph Millson said in his tribute: 'So sad to hear of the passing of Des Barrit. I was in three productions with him, each a real flag in the sand for my career'
Desmond also appeared on television, including a role as Raymond Clandillon in a 2007 episode of Midsomer Murders titled They Seek Him Here, alongside appearances in the BBC medical drama Holby City.
In 2008, he took on the role of the Wizard in Wicked at London's Apollo Victoria Theatre, and later appeared in 2014 as Michaud in Helen Edmundson's adaptation of Thérèse Raquin at the Theatre Royal, Bath.
Tributes were also paid by colleagues.
Screenwriter and Doctor Who showrunner Russell Davies said: 'A giant, a lion and a joy, he'll be much missed. Goodnight to a great man.'
Actor Joseph Millson said: 'So sad to hear of the passing of Des Barrit. I was in three productions with him, each a real flag in the sand for my career.
'Des was a kind mess of humanity and a consummate actor every single time. So many stories. Fare forward friend.'
