'Sweet papa': Jennifer Aniston's moving tribute to her actor father who died aged 89

Jennifer Aniston has paid tribute to her actor father John, describing him as "one of the most beautiful humans I ever knew", after his death aged 89.

John Aniston was the Emmy-winning star of the daytime soap opera Days Of Our Lives and a US Navy veteran.

In a moving tribute on Instagram, his daughter, Friends star Jennifer wrote: "Sweet papa…⁣ John Anthony Aniston. You were one of the most beautiful humans I ever knew.

"I am so grateful that you went soaring into the heavens in peace - and without pain. And on 11/11 [Armistice Day and US Veterans' Day] no less! You always had perfect timing.

"That number will forever hold an even greater meaning for me now.⁣"

John Aniston was born Yannis Anastassakis in Crete, Greece, and emigrated with his family to Pennsylvania when he was a child.

His best known role was Victor Kiriakis in Days Of Our Lives, but his credits also included Search for Tomorrow, The West Wing and Gilmore Girls.

His performance of Victor was recognised in 2017 when he was nominated for the Daytime Emmy Award for outstanding supporting actor in a drama series. And earlier this year, John was awarded the Daytime Emmy lifetime achievement award for his role on the show.

In addition to Jennifer, who John shared with his first wife and fellow actor Nancy Dow, John also had a son, Alexander, with his second wife Sherry Rooney.