Doctor Who Star Dies at 87

(TotalConservative.com) – Prolific film and television actor Richard Franklin died on Monday, Dec. 25, at the ripe age of 87.

The famous “Doctor Who” actor’s death was confirmed by Liam Rudden, a longtime friend of Franklin who ran the actor’s social media accounts. Rudden wrote on Twitter that the actor “died in his sleep after fighting long-term illness.” He said Franklin would be fondly remembered “for his generosity, creative spirit and fantastic storytelling.”

Paying tribute to his friend, Rudden highlighted some of Franklin’s endearing qualities and career accomplishments, including “his long-running career in TV and theater,” delighting “audiences of all ages.” Rudden said acting gave Franklin “great joy” and “his legacy will last.”

Rudden also revealed how much the British actor appreciated and enjoyed receiving comments from fans, noting that Franklin would’ve “loved that he is trending” on social media and internet search results. The deceased actor’s friend also admitted that what he loved most “about managing [Franklin’s] social media was reading him” messages from fans online.

Rudden added that Franklin “was always surprised and humbled” by those who showed him love, which Rudden said “was very much reciprocated” by Franklin to his fans. Rudden said the support from the public is “evident right now” and that he’s sure it would comfort the actor’s family.

Franklin was most famous for his work on screen, on television, and on stage. His debut role was on the 1966 British television series “Dix of Dock Green.” According to The Hollywood Reporter, the actor’s big break was his appearance as Joe Townsend in 1969 on the soap opera, “Crossroads.” He then took on the role of Captain Mike Yates in the famous science-fiction series, “Doctor Who,” which he remained associated with throughout his life, regularly attending conventions to meet fans.

One of his most recent roles was in the Star Wars prequel film, “Rogue One,” in which he played the character Sirro Argonne, an engineer of the Death Star. Franklin was also an author and wrote several books.