Actor, writer, journalist, and political activist Richard Franklin passed away at 87. He was best known for his work on the British TV series Doctor Who. He passed away in his sleep after “fighting a long-term illness” on Christmas morning as the news was shared by a friend on behalf of the family.

On Monday, after the news started circulating, Líam Rudden took to social media on behalf of Franklin’s family to confirm and share with the world that his friend has passed away. The tweet reads: “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.”

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. #RIP
– Líam Rudden pic.twitter.com/TgsSADbQYt

— Richard Franklin (@PlanetFranklin) December 25, 2023

With this announcement, the family of Franklin also shared a statement regarding his passing. The statement put out by the family reads: “We are deeply saddened by his loss, we will fondly remember him for his generosity, creative spirit and fantastic storytelling. He is also well remembered outside the family for his long running career in TV and Theatre where he delighted audiences of all ages. This gave him great joy and we know his legacy will last.”

Franklin was best known for his role as Mike Yates, the Captain of UNIT on Doctor Who while Jon Pertwee played the Third Doctor. His character became recurring as Franklin continued with his portrayal of Captain Yates throughout multiple episodes and Doctor Who specials. Before his fame in the Doctor Who universe, Franklin’s first TV breakout role was in the British soap opera Crossroads. Other credits include the series’ The Doctors, Little Women, The Pathfinders, Blake’s 7, Heartbeat, and The Borgias. 

Along with television, Franklin also acted on the silver screen in several films. Most recently and notably, he starred as Sirro Argonne, the Death Star Engineer in the recent Star Wars film Rogue One: A Star Wars Story.