RICHARD Franklin died ‘peacefully’ in his sleep on Christmas morning.
Doctor Who fans will remember him as Captain Mike Yates of UNIT in the series from 1971 to 1974.
But it wasn’t just the sci-fi classic that Richard featured in.
Líam Rudden wrote on his official X account: “It is with great sadness, that the family of Richard Franklin have asked me to share news of his passing, early this morning.
“Richard passed away peacefully in his sleep.
“Details of funeral arrangements will be shared here when announced.
“Sleep well, Richard.”
The 87-year-old played Denis Rigg in Emmerdale – which was called Emmerdale Farm at the time.
He also landed the role of Sirro Argonne in Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.
He also appeared in the British soap Crossroads, which followed the lives of two feuding sisters who ran a motel.
He was also a writer, and published the book Forest Wisdom: Radical Reform of Democracy and the Welfare State and has written novels based in the Whoniverse.
He stood as a candidate for the UK Parliament for different parties and started the Silent Majority Party.
He was mostly an actor as a stage actor.
Fans have taken to social media to share their love for Richard, including one fan who said that he had gone on an “awfully big adventure”.
Another shared a photo of him and John Pertwee, who played Doctor Who during his time on the show.
“Both now having a sneaky Christmas pint & a catchup, I bet. RIP Richard Franklin,” they wrote.
“How very sad. Rest in peace Richard Franklin our wonderful Captain Yates. Such a lovely man. He always used to wish me happy birthday before he got ill as we share the same birthday. RIP.” a third added.
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