Teletubbies actor Simon Shelton dies aged 52

Teletubbies actor Simon Shelton, who played purple Teletubby Tinky Winky, has died at the age of 52.
Simon, who was also known as Simon Barnes, took on the role of Tinky Winky in 1997, and previously played The Dark Knight in BBC1 children’s show Incredible Games.
The actor’s death was announced on Facebook by his son Henry, one of Simon’s three children.
“I lost my lovely dad on Wednesday (17Jan18), he was the kindest and most gentle man I knew and I love him more than anything,” he said.
“I always used to be embarrassed as a child that he was a dancer and an actor but now I couldn’t be more proud. He is in a better place now and I know he wouldn’t want me to be sad, so I’m going to live my life the way he would want me to.”
Tributes have been paid to the children’s TV star, including an Instagram post courtesy of his niece actress Emily Atack, who is best known for playing Charlotte Hinchcliffe in comedy series The Inbetweeners.
“My wonderful uncle Simon Barnes has been taken from us all so suddenly,” the 28-year-old wrote under a photo of the actor. “The kindest and most talented man you could ever wish to meet. Loved by all who knew him, and will be forever. X”
Paul McCartney’s brother Mike McGear, a second cousin of Simon’s wife Emma, paid his respects on Facebook.
“So sad to hear about Si. He was a luvly lad..and will be dancing along Uncle Bills bar, knocking Mum&Dad, Milly&Ginny, Mike &Betts drinks off, as we talk! Luv to U & kids from me & mine X,” he posted.
The original Teletubbies ran on the BBC from 1997 to 2001 and spawned a number one single, called Teletubbies say ‘Eh-oh!’, in December 1997.
Simon was also a trained ballet dancer and choreographer.