Only Fools and Horses actor Ron Pember dies aged 87

Ron Pember has passed away credit:Bang Showbiz
Ron Pember has passed away credit:Bang Showbiz

'Only Fools and Horses' actor Ron Pember has died aged 87.

The TV star passed away on Tuesday (08.03.22), with his grandson confirming the sad news via social media.

Paul Pember wrote on Twitter: "The sadness now is the happiness then. That’s the deal. 11.04.1934 - 08.03.2022 #ronpember #grandad (sic)"

Ron played the part of Baz, the Chairman of the Tenants' Association, in series three of 'Only Fools and Horses'.

And the sitcom's official Twitter account has already paid tribute to his life and career.

A statement read: "We are saddened to hear of the news of the death of Ron Pember who played Baz in the series 3 episode ‘Homesick’

"Our thoughts and warm wishes go to his family and friends. (sic)"

Ron starred in a number of other TV shows during his career, including 'Red Dwarf' and the drama series 'Secret Army'. However, he suffered a stroke in 1992 and subsequently retired from acting.

Danny John Jules - who starred as Cat in 'Red Dwarf' - has taken to social media to pay tribute to his former co-star.

The 61-year-old actor heaped praise on Ron, describing him as a "gentleman".

He wrote on Twitter: "Just heard the sad news that Ron Pember has passed away. (Tuesday) He was such a gentleman with us upstarts when he appeared on #RedDwarf He just rammed his tongue firmly into his cheek and joined the party! What a legend. RIP (sic)"

The official 'Red Dwarf' account also acknowledged Ron's contribution to the sitcom.

A post read: "RIP Ron Pember. A terrific character actor, stage director and dramatist who made a memorable appearance in Series II’s Better Than Life. (sic)"

Away from the TV industry, Ron wrote a stage musical about Jack the Ripper and the murder spree in London's East End in the 1880s. The production is still performed around the world to this day.